Differential Reinforcement — Turning Down Challenging Behaviors, Turning Up the Positive
One of the most effective tools in ABA for reducing challenging behaviors — without using punishment — is called Differential Reinforcement. It’s a science-backed, proactive way to teach new behaviors while decreasing the ones that interfere with learning or daily life.
At its core, differential reinforcement means reinforcing one behavior while purposefully not reinforcing another. It gives your child a clear message: “This behavior gets rewards. This one doesn’t.”
What Is Differential Reinforcement?
There are several types of differential reinforcement, but they all share the same principle: teach and reward what you want to see more of, while removing reinforcement from what you want to see less of.
Here are the most common types:
DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior): Reinforce a different, appropriate behavior instead of the challenging one.
DRO (Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior): Reinforce when the challenging behavior doesn’t happen during a set time.
DRI (Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior): Reinforce a behavior that cannot physically happen at the same time as the problem behavior.
DRL (Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates): Reinforce the behavior only when it happens less frequently.
Let’s break these down with practical examples.
Example 1: Using DRA
Behavior: Your child screams to get your attention.
Alternative Behavior: Saying “Mommy” or tapping you gently.
Plan: Only respond and praise when they use the alternative behavior — not when they scream.
Example 2: Using DRO
Behavior: Your child bangs on the table repeatedly.
Plan: Set a timer for 2 minutes. If they don’t bang during that time, give them a reward. Gradually increase the time as they succeed.
Example 3: Using DRI
Behavior: Your child hits when upset.
Incompatible Behavior: Hands in pockets or clapping.
Plan: Reinforce the incompatible behavior. Praise and reward any time their hands are used positively.
Example 4: Using DRL
Behavior: Your child asks the same question every 30 seconds.
Plan: Set a rule: “You can ask that 3 times during dinner.” Reward when the rule is followed.
Why It Works
Differential reinforcement shifts the focus from stopping a behavior to building a better one. Instead of punishing the child, you’re teaching them what works. It’s positive, respectful, and incredibly effective.
How to Use Differential Reinforcement at Home
Identify the problem behavior
Be specific. “Whining during homework” is more useful than “being bad.”Pick the right type
Ask yourself: Can I teach an alternative? Is there a behavior that’s incompatible? Is the goal to reduce frequency?Choose reinforcers
Pick rewards your child cares about — praise, extra play time, a token, etc.Be consistent
Only reinforce the behavior you’re targeting. Ignore (or neutrally redirect) the problem behavior.Track progress
Use a simple chart or notes to track what’s working and when to raise the bar.
Tips for Success
Start small: Choose one behavior at a time.
Pair reinforcement with praise: “I love how you used your words!”
Use timers for DRO: Help your child understand the waiting period.
Stay calm during problem behaviors: Focus on what you want to see.
Final Thoughts
Differential reinforcement is a gentle, empowering strategy that teaches your child how to get their needs met in healthier ways. It builds skills, not shame — and that’s the kind of discipline every parent can feel good about.
