“Differential Reinforcement: A Behavior Modification Approach”

QUESTION

Matthew frequently screams when he wants attention from his mom. In order to decrease Matthew’s screaming behavior, his mom does not pay attention to him when he screams. When Matthew quietly asks for attention, his behavior is reinforced with attention from his mom. Which differential reinforcement procedure is Matthew’s mom using? Group of answer choices a. DRL. b. DRO. c. DRH. d. DRA.

ANSWER

“Differential Reinforcement: A Behavior Modification Approach”

Introduction

In the realm of behavior modification, parents often employ differential reinforcement procedures to shape and manage their child’s behavior. In the scenario involving Matthew’s screaming behavior, his mother is employing a specific differential reinforcement procedure to decrease his undesirable behavior while reinforcing more appropriate communication. Let’s delve into the procedure Matthew’s mom is using and understand its implications.

Differential Reinforcement Procedure

Matthew’s mom is implementing the “Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior” (DRA) procedure. In DRA, the goal is to reduce or eliminate an undesirable behavior by reinforcing a more appropriate alternative behavior. In this case, the undesirable behavior is Matthew’s screaming when he wants attention, and the alternative behavior is quietly asking for attention.

How DRA Works

Identify Undesirable Behavior: The first step in DRA is to identify the behavior you want to reduce or eliminate. In this scenario, it’s Matthew’s screaming.

Define the Alternative Behavior: Next, you define the alternative behavior you want to encourage. Matthew’s mom wants him to ask for attention quietly.

Withhold Reinforcement for Undesirable Behavior: To decrease the undesirable behavior (screaming), Matthew’s mom withholds reinforcement (attention) when he screams. This is a form of extinction, where the behavior is no longer reinforced, leading to its eventual decrease.

Reinforce the Alternative Behavior: When Matthew engages in the desired alternative behavior (quietly asking for attention), his mom provides reinforcement in the form of attention. By doing so, she reinforces the communication method she prefers and encourages Matthew to use it more frequently.

Advantages of DRA

Promotes Communication: DRA encourages individuals to express their needs and desires through appropriate communication, as seen in Matthew’s transition from screaming to asking quietly.

Positive Reinforcement: It employs positive reinforcement, which is generally more effective and humane than punishment-based approaches.

Tailored Interventions: DRA allows for individualized strategies, as it targets specific behaviors and alternative behaviors based on the person’s needs and circumstances.

Conclusion

Matthew’s mom’s use of the DRA procedure is a proactive and effective way to shape her son’s behavior. By reinforcing the desired alternative behavior (quietly asking for attention) while withholding reinforcement for the undesirable behavior (screaming), she is teaching Matthew a more socially acceptable and effective way to communicate his needs. This approach not only reduces problem behaviors but also promotes healthier communication patterns, benefiting both Matthew and his mother.