Manipulating parameters of reinforcement to reduce problem behavior without extinction.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Applied Behavior Analysis

Background:

• Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) often incorporates extinction, but this is not always feasible or effective.
• Implementing DRA without extinction requires careful manipulation of reinforcement parameters to favor alternative behaviors.

Observation:

• This study assessed participant sensitivity to quality, magnitude, and immediacy of reinforcement using arbitrary responses and reinforcers.
• These assessments informed the implementation of DRA without extinction for problem behavior.

Findings:

• Arbitrary responses effectively identify individual sensitivities to reinforcement parameters that maintain problem behavior.
• DRA without extinction was effective when reinforcement parameters were matched to individual sensitivities.
• Treatment efficacy varied based on whether reinforcement parameters matched high or low sensitivities.

Implications:

• This research provides a method for optimizing DRA interventions by individualizing reinforcement strategies.
• Tailoring reinforcement based on sensitivity can enhance treatment effectiveness for problem behaviors, even without extinction.
• Findings support the use of arbitrary responses in applied behavior analysis for treatment planning.