ABA glossary
Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior
Also called DRA
Definition
Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior: reinforcing a specific, more appropriate behavior while withholding (or minimizing) reinforcement for the problem behavior. The alternative does not have to be physically incompatible with the problem behavior.
In plain words
DRA teaches the person a better way to get what they want. Instead of only trying to stop a problem behavior, the team picks an acceptable behavior, often one that gets the same reinforcer, and makes sure that behavior pays off reliably while the problem behavior does not. Over time the person uses the alternative more and the problem behavior less. DRI and FCT are both forms of DRA.
Example from a session
When Sofia wants a turn with the class iPad, she has been grabbing it. Her plan reinforces saying "My turn, please": the RBT immediately helps her get a turn when she asks, and blocks grabbing safely without giving the iPad. The RBT prompts the request as the plan describes and records independent requests and grabbing attempts.
For BCBA candidates and supervisors
An effective DRA alternative is functionally equivalent to the problem behavior, already in or easy to add to the person's repertoire, socially valid, and reinforced at least as richly and quickly as the problem behavior was. Combining DRA with extinction usually works best. As the alternative becomes strong, analysts thin the reinforcement schedule gradually and watch for resurgence of the problem behavior when reinforcement for the alternative is delayed or lost.
Often confused with differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior, differential reinforcement of other behavior
DRA reinforces any specified appropriate behavior. DRI is the subtype in which the reinforced behavior cannot physically happen at the same time as the problem behavior, such as hands in pockets versus hitting. DRO reinforces the absence of the problem behavior over an interval and does not name a replacement.
Exam tip
If the stem names a specific behavior to reinforce, and that behavior could still occur together with the problem behavior, choose DRA. If the two cannot happen at the same time, choose DRI.
Can you spot differential reinforcement of alternative behavior in a scenario?
Practice RBT D.3 with exam-style questions and instant feedback.