A DRI, or Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible behavior, is a behavior modification technique used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to reduce undesired behaviors by reinforcing behaviors that are incompatible with the target behavior. Essentially, DRI involves encouraging an alternative behavior that cannot occur simultaneously with the undesired behavior.
How DRI is Used in ABA:
Identify the Target Behavior: The first step is to define the behavior that needs to be reduced. For example, if a child frequently engages in inappropriate physical behavior, such as hitting.
Identify an Incompatible Behavior: The next step is to determine a behavior that is incompatible with the undesired behavior. For instance, if the target behavior is hitting, an incompatible behavior could be keeping hands to oneself or giving high-fives.
Reinforcement: When the individual engages in the incompatible behavior, they are provided with reinforcement (e.g., praise, tokens, or access to preferred activities). For example, if the child gives a high-five instead of hitting, they receive positive reinforcement.
Consistent Implementation: It’s important to consistently reinforce the incompatible behavior whenever it occurs while ignoring or minimizing attention to the undesired behavior.
Monitor Progress: Data is collected to track the frequency of the target behavior and the incompatible behavior. This allows practitioners to assess the effectiveness of the DRI intervention and make adjustments as necessary.
Generalization: Strategies are implemented to encourage the individual to use the incompatible behavior in different settings and situations, promoting the generalization of the skill.
Example:
If a child tends to shout out answers in class, a DRI approach might involve:
Target Behavior: Shouting out
Incompatible Behavior: Raising a hand
Reinforcement: Providing praise or a small reward every time the child raises their hand instead of shouting.
