Psychology Chapter 15 - Differential Reinforcement

Study Notes

Differential Reinforcement Procedures

Combine reinforcement and extinction to boost desirable behaviors and reduce undesirable ones.
Three main types:
- Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA)
- Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO)
- Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates of Responding (DRL)

Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA)

Aims to increase desirable behaviors while decreasing undesirable ones through reinforcement and extinction.
Allows for reinforcement of desirable behaviors by reducing opportunity for undesirable behaviors.

Implementing DRA

Desirable behavior must occur at least occasionally for reinforcement to be effective.
Steps to implement DRA:
- Clearly define desirable and undesirable behaviors.
- Identify appropriate reinforcer, which could be the same as used for the problem behavior or apply the Premack principle.
- Provide immediate and consistent reinforcement for desirable behavior.
- Remove reinforcement for undesirable behaviors completely.
- Gradually shift to intermittent reinforcement to sustain the target behavior.
- Plan for generalization to ensure the target behavior occurs across different situations.

Premack Principle

Utilizes the opportunity to engage in a high-frequency behavior as a reward for completing a low-frequency behavior (e.g., playing games for completing homework).

Continuous vs Intermittent Reinforcement

Continuous reinforcement is essential during initial DRA stages until the desirable behavior is stable.
Transition to intermittent reinforcement enhances resistance to extinction and maintains the desired behavior over time.

Programming for Generalization

In addition to maintaining through intermittent reinforcement, generalization ensures the target behavior is demonstrated in all relevant contexts outside training environments.

Differential Negative Reinforcement of Alternative Behaviors (DNRA)

Uses negative reinforcement to replace undesirable behaviors with acceptable ones (e.g., allowing escape from tasks only after completion).
Example case of Jason, who learned to complete schoolwork to gain a break, showcasing effective replacement of tantrums.

Variations of DRA

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI): Reinforces behaviors that are incompatible with the undesirable behavior (e.g., using hands for play prevents self-harm).
Differential Reinforcement of Communication (DRC), or Functional Communication Training: Teaches communication responses to replace problem behaviors (e.g., asking for attention instead of acting out).

Description

Explore the concept of differential reinforcement procedures with this set of flashcards. Learn how to effectively apply reinforcement and extinction to modify behavior, focusing on types like DRA, DRO, and more. Perfect for psychology students looking to deepen their understanding of behavior modification techniques.