Which differential reinforcement procedure provides the functional reinforcer contingent on specific behavior(s) that are incompatible with the target negative behavior and withholding the reinforcer following instances of the negative behavior?

• A. Differential Reinforcement Procedures
• B. Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behaviors (DRA)
• C. Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors (DRO)
• D. Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behaviors (DRI)

Answer: (D)

This is about replacing a problem behavior by reinforcing a behavior that cannot occur at the same time as it. In a differential reinforcement of incompatible behaviors, the reinforcer is provided only when the learner performs a behavior that is physically incompatible with the target negative behavior. At the same time, reinforcement is withheld after instances of the problematic behavior.

For example, if a student yells out, you reinforce staying quiet and raising a hand to speak (an action that can’t happen while yelling). If the student yells, no reinforcement is given. This creates a clear contingency: perform the incompatible behavior and earn the reinforcer; perform the negative behavior and do not earn reinforcement.

This approach is distinct from other differential reinforcement procedures that either reinforce any appropriate alternative (which need not be incompatible) or reinforce the absence of the problem behavior for a period of time (without specifying a particular incompatible behavior).