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Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Three Laboratory Procedures for Assessing Different Manifestations of Impulsivity in Rats
Published on: March 17, 2019
Comparison of DRO and DRI on rate of suppression of self-injurious behavior
Abstract:
Two procedures were used to compare the effects of differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) and differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) on self-injurious behavior (SIB) of three profoundly retarded head-bangers in a multiple-schedule within-subjects design. We found that rewarding a response specifically incompatible with SIB suppressed it more rapidly than applying DRO without specifying an alternative response. The relationship of collateral behaviors to SIB were dependent upon the repertoires of the individual clients.
Insights
Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) more effectively reduced self-injurious behavior (SIB) than differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO). DRI rapidly suppressed SIB by reinforcing alternative, non-injurious actions.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Self-injurious behavior (SIB) presents significant challenges in individuals with profound intellectual disabilities.
- Behavioral interventions are crucial for managing SIB.
Observation:
- A within-subjects design compared differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) and differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI).
- Three individuals with profound intellectual disabilities exhibiting head-banging SIB participated.
Findings:
- Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) demonstrated a more rapid suppression of self-injurious behavior (SIB) compared to differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO).
- The effectiveness of collateral behavior management was client-specific, depending on individual repertoires.
Implications:
- DRI may be a more efficient intervention for rapidly reducing SIB in certain populations.
- Tailoring behavioral interventions to individual client repertoires is essential for optimal outcomes in SIB management.
