Key Takeaways
- Differential reinforcement encourages positive behavior by reinforcing what you want to see more of—and withholding reinforcement from problem behaviors.
- There are different types of differential reinforcement, including reinforcing alternative, incompatible, or lower rates of behavior—or reinforcing the absence of a behavior altogether.
- This technique is most effective when used consistently, with clear expectations and meaningful rewards.
- You don’t need to be a behavior expert to start using differential reinforcement—just observant, patient, and intentional.
When a child struggles with challenging behavior, it can feel overwhelming to know what to do next. Should you ignore it? Redirect it? Reward good behavior? Welcome to the world of differential reinforcement—a powerful, practical approach used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that helps replace unwanted behavior with positive alternatives. And don’t worry—we’ll skip the jargon and explain it in a way that actually makes sense.
What Is Differential Reinforcement?
Differential reinforcement means giving attention or rewards for some behaviors and not others. It’s about being strategic with what we reinforce—choosing to encourage behaviors we want to see more of, while not encouraging those we want to reduce.
Think of it like this: You’re shaping behavior by saying, “Yes, do more of this,” while quietly stepping back from behaviors that aren’t helpful or safe.
It’s not punishment. It’s not bribery. It’s a teaching tool—and when used consistently, it works.
Why It Works: The Behavior-Reinforcement Link
All behavior serves a purpose. Kids might act out to get attention, avoid something, ask for help, or express frustration. When a behavior is followed by something rewarding—like laughter, comfort, or escape—it’s more likely to happen again.
Differential reinforcement changes that cycle. Instead of unintentionally reinforcing a tantrum, for example, you can teach a more appropriate behavior that still meets the child’s need (like asking for a break). Then, you reinforce that instead.
The Different Types (Without the Science-y Acronyms)
Here are the most common ways differential reinforcement shows up in everyday ABA—and how you might apply them without needing a degree in behavior science.
1. Reinforce the Good, Ignore the Not-So-Good
Technically: Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior – DRA
Let’s say your child often screams to get your attention. Instead of reacting to the screaming, you teach them to tap your arm or say “excuse me.” When they use the better behavior, you give them your full attention. When they scream? No reaction. Over time, they learn: the better behavior works, the other one doesn’t.
2. Reinforce Incompatible Behaviors
Technically: DRI – Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior
This one’s about reinforcing a behavior that can’t happen at the same time as the one you’re trying to reduce.
Example: If a child often hits others during play, you might teach them to keep both hands on their lap when they’re waiting. You praise or reward them when their hands are in their lap—which physically prevents hitting. The behaviors are incompatible.
3. Reinforce Lower Rates of Behavior
Technically: DRL – Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates of Behavior
This approach is used when you don’t want to eliminate a behavior completely—but want to reduce how often it happens.
For instance, if a child is constantly raising their hand in class to talk, you might only respond to every third hand raise, reinforcing fewer interruptions but not discouraging participation.
4. Reinforce the Absence of the Behavior
Technically: DRO – Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior
You reinforce your child when the problem behavior doesn’t happen at all for a set amount of time.
Say your child tends to yell when frustrated. If they go 10 minutes without yelling, they get a high five, a sticker, or a preferred activity. You’re rewarding the absence of the behavior, which encourages calm behavior moving forward.
What Makes It Work?
Consistency and Clarity
To be successful, differential reinforcement requires:
- Clear expectations – Your child needs to know what behavior is being reinforced.
- Immediate feedback – Reinforce the behavior as soon as it happens, so the connection is obvious.
- Consistency across environments – If only one adult is using the strategy, it may not stick.
It’s also important to know your child’s motivators—what’s meaningful to them. For some, it’s praise or stickers. For others, it’s extra screen time, a snack, or time with a favorite toy.
A Real-Life Example: Tantrums at Bedtime
Let’s say your child screams every night at bedtime. You realize the screaming delays bedtime and gets your attention—so it’s being unintentionally reinforced.
Using differential reinforcement:
- You teach them to ask for “5 more minutes” calmly.
- You reinforce calm requests with a timer and cuddle time.
- You ignore the screaming (while still keeping them safe).
Over time, they learn that calm requests work better than tantrums.
When to Ask for Help
Differential reinforcement is powerful, but some situations may require guidance from a trained ABA professional—especially if behaviors are intense, dangerous, or rooted in communication delays. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can help tailor a plan that works for your family’s specific needs.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Perfection
You don’t need to be a behavior specialist to start using differential reinforcement. You just need to:
- Notice the behaviors you do want
- Reinforce them every chance you get
- Stay consistent, patient, and encouraging
It’s a practical, compassionate way to guide behavior—one moment, one reward, one small success at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child doesn’t respond to the reinforcement I’m offering?
Not all rewards work for every child. Try different motivators—such as praise, toys, snacks, or time with a favorite activity—to find what truly encourages your child.
Can I use differential reinforcement at home without professional support?
Yes! While ABA professionals use it in therapy, parents and caregivers can use simplified versions at home. If you’re dealing with severe or unsafe behaviors, it’s best to consult with a BCBA for guidance.
How long does it take to see results from differential reinforcement?
It depends on the child and behavior, but with consistent use, many families start to notice changes within a few weeks. Patience and consistency are key.
