What is DRI vs DRO vs DRA in ABA?

What is DRI vs DRO vs DRA in ABA? Life can be complex, and sometimes we all face challenging behaviors that are difficult to manage. In the world of applied behavior analysis (ABA), there are effective strategies to help navigate these challenges. A powerful tool in ABA therapy is called differential reinforcement. This approach helps reduce unwanted behaviors by focusing on strengthening desired ones. Understanding the different types of differential reinforcement can provide you with a toolbox of strategies to encourage positive and lasting change.

Overview of Differential Reinforcement in ABA

Differential reinforcement is a well-researched strategy in behavior analysis that has two key parts. It involves providing reinforcement for a desired behavior while withholding reinforcement from an undesired or target behavior. This method helps to systematically decrease challenging behaviors.

There are several types of differential reinforcement, each designed for different situations. By selecting the right approach, you can teach a replacement behavior and effectively manage a target behavior, making it a cornerstone for creating positive changes.

Purpose and Importance in Applied Behavior Analysis

The primary purpose of differential reinforcement in applied behavior analysis is to reduce undesired behaviors by strengthening appropriate ones. Instead of focusing only on what someone should stop doing, this method teaches them what they should do instead. This proactive approach is fundamental to effective behavior change.

This strategy is crucial because it goes beyond simple correction. It helps individuals develop a replacement behavior that is more functional and socially appropriate. The goals of the individual receiving ABA therapy often include improving communication, social skills, and independence. Differential reinforcement directly supports these goals by building a repertoire of positive actions.

Ultimately, its importance in behavior analysis lies in its constructive nature. It empowers individuals by giving them new tools to meet their needs, leading to more sustainable and meaningful improvements in their daily lives. It is a respectful and effective way to address a target behavior.

How Differential Reinforcement Supports Positive Behavior Change

Differential reinforcement is a powerful engine for positive behavior change because it is rooted in positive reinforcement. How does differential reinforcement encourage positive behaviors? It works by rewarding the behaviors you want to see more of, which naturally makes them more likely to happen again.

When an individual displays an appropriate alternative behavior instead of a target behavior, they receive a reward, such as praise, a favorite item, or a fun activity. This creates a clear connection between their positive actions and a pleasant outcome. This process makes learning new skills a positive and motivating experience.

By consistently reinforcing desirable actions, differential reinforcement helps shift the focus from problematic actions to constructive ones. This method doesn’t just stop a target behavior; it actively builds a foundation of positive skills that can serve the individual well across different environments, fostering lasting positive behavior change.

Key Principles Underlying Differential Reinforcement

Differential reinforcement procedures are built on a few core principles of behavior analysis that work together to create change. At its heart, the process involves selectively applying and withholding reinforcement to shape behavior over time.

So, how do differential reinforcement procedures work in behavior change? They operate by making a desirable behavior more rewarding than an undesired behavior. This contrast helps the individual learn to choose the more appropriate behavior because it leads to a better outcome for them.

The key principles include:

Reinforcement: Providing a consequence that increases the likelihood of a desirable behavior.
Extinction: Withholding the reinforcement that was previously maintaining an undesired behavior.
Discrimination: Helping the individual learn to tell the difference between situations where a behavior will be reinforced and when it will not.
Shaping: Gradually guiding the individual toward the final, appropriate behavior by reinforcing small steps.

Introduction to DRA, DRI, and DRO Strategies

Now that we understand the basics of differential reinforcement, let’s look at three specific types of differential reinforcement. A behavior analyst will often choose between Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA), Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI), and Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO).

Each of these strategies offers a unique approach to behavior change. The DRA procedure, DRI procedure, and DRO procedure are all valuable tools, but they are used in different contexts to achieve specific outcomes.

Definitions: DRA, DRI, and DRO in ABA Therapy

Understanding the definitions of these three core strategies is the first step to using them effectively in ABA therapy. Though their names sound similar, their applications are quite distinct. So, what is the difference between DRA, DRI, and DRO in ABA?

Essentially, the difference lies in what is being reinforced. Each strategy targets behavior from a different angle to achieve a reduction in an unwanted action.

Here is a simple breakdown:

Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA): You reinforce a specific, more appropriate behavior that serves the same purpose as the problem behavior.
Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI): You reinforce a behavior that cannot physically be done at the same time as the problem behavior.
Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO): You reinforce the absence of the problem behavior for a set period.

When and Why Practitioners Use Each Approach

Choosing the right type of differential reinforcement is a critical decision a behavior analyst makes during ABA therapy. The choice isn’t random; it’s based on a careful analysis of the specific behavior and the individual’s skills. When should a practitioner choose DRA, DRI, or DRO?

The decision hinges on the function of the behavior and the desired outcome. For example, if the goal is to teach a new communication skill, DRA is often the best fit. If the priority is to physically stop a behavior from happening, DRI may be more effective.

A behavior analyst considers the following when making a choice:

Use DRA when there is a clear alternative behavior that can be taught to serve the same function.
Use DRI when you can identify a specific behavior that is physically incompatible with the problem behavior.
Use DRO when the primary goal is to eliminate a behavior, especially if it’s severe and a replacement isn’t immediately available.

Common Misconceptions About These Reinforcement Techniques

One of the biggest misconceptions about differential reinforcement techniques is that they are a form of punishment. Are these reinforcement techniques the same as punishment? The answer is a clear no. These strategies are fundamentally different from punishment procedures.

Punishment involves adding an unpleasant consequence to decrease a behavior. In contrast, differential reinforcement focuses on positive behavior change by rewarding and teaching appropriate behaviors. The goal is to build skills, not to cause distress. Withholding reinforcement for an inappropriate behavior (extinction) is not the same as punishing it.

Here are some common misconceptions to clear up:

They are not about punishing bad behavior.
They do not solely focus on stopping an action; they aim to teach a replacement.
They are not a quick fix but a systematic teaching process.
The three types (DRA, DRI, DRO) are not interchangeable; each has a specific use.

Understanding Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior (DRA)

Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior, or DRA, is a powerful behavior reduction procedure used frequently in ABA. The core idea of the DRA procedure is to reinforce a desirable alternative behavior while no longer reinforcing the problem behavior.

This strategy is especially useful because it does more than just stop an unwanted action; it teaches a valuable new skill in its place. Let’s examine how DRA in ABA works and where it can be applied.

What is DRA? Core Elements and Function

Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) is a procedure that focuses on increasing a desirable behavior that serves the same function as the one you want to reduce. How does DRA target replacement behavior? It does so by making the replacement behavior more effective and efficient at getting the desired outcome.

For a DRA procedure to be successful in ABA therapy, the chosen alternative behavior must be functionally equivalent to the problem behavior. This means if a child screams to get attention, the alternative behavior—such as tapping someone’s shoulder—must also result in getting attention.

By consistently rewarding the new, appropriate skill and ignoring the old, problematic one, the individual learns a better way to communicate their needs. This shifts their behavior pattern toward more socially acceptable and functional actions over time.

Examples of DRA Used in Real-World Scenarios

DRA is highly effective in real-world situations, especially for skill acquisition of children in ABA therapy. It provides clear, practical solutions to common behavior problems by teaching a better way to act.

For example, a child who grabs toys from others can be taught to say, “My turn, please?” The therapist or parent would then reinforce the request by giving them the toy, while not providing the toy if they grab it. This teaches a functional communication skill as an alternative behavior.

Here are a few more real-world examples:

A student who shouts out answers in class is taught to raise their hand. The teacher only calls on them when their hand is raised.
An individual who tantrums to escape a task is taught to ask for a break.
In a famous historical account, Prince Albert reinforced his wife, Queen Victoria, for speaking calmly (“your wife”) instead of pounding on the door and demanding entry (“The Queen of England”).

Benefits and Limitations of DRA in ABA Programs

Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior offers significant benefits in ABA therapy, making it a popular choice for achieving a desired outcome. However, like any strategy, it also has limitations to consider.

The main benefit is that it is a constructive approach. It doesn’t just eliminate a problem behavior; it actively teaches and strengthens a positive, functional skill that the individual can use for years to come. This focus on skill-building is a huge plus.

Despite its advantages, there are some challenges:

Benefits: It directly teaches a replacement skill, is a positive and non-punitive approach, and can lead to lasting behavior change.
Limitations: It requires identifying an alternative behavior that serves the exact same function, which can sometimes be difficult. It also requires a high level of consistency from everyone involved to be effective.

Exploring Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI)

Let’s now turn our attention to Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI). This strategy is a specific and highly effective tool within behavior analysis. The DRI procedure works by reinforcing an incompatible behavior—one that is physically impossible to do at the same time as the problem behavior.

This technique is a clever way to reduce an unwanted action because it makes it impossible for both behaviors to occur simultaneously. In ABA therapy, DRI is chosen for its direct and clear impact.

Defining DRI and Its Unique Role

Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) is a procedure where you reinforce a specific behavior that cannot coexist with the behavior targeted for reduction. What makes DRI distinct from other types of reinforcement? Its uniqueness lies in the physical incompatibility between the new behavior and the old one.

For instance, a person cannot be sitting in their seat and walking around the room at the same time. The act of sitting is incompatible with walking. In ABA therapy, a therapist would reinforce sitting while withholding reinforcement for walking around.

This direct opposition is what gives DRI its power. By strengthening the incompatible behavior, you are simultaneously and directly weakening the problem behavior. It creates a situation where engaging in the positive action automatically prevents the negative one from happening.

Practical Case Studies Featuring DRI Interventions

The DRI procedure is a practical behavior reduction procedure that a behavior analyst might use in ABA therapy. A classic case study involves a child who frequently puts their hands in their mouth.

To address this, the therapist could implement a DRI intervention by reinforcing the child for engaging in an activity that keeps their hands busy, like playing with a puzzle, coloring, or holding a favorite toy. Since the child’s hands are occupied, they cannot simultaneously put them in their mouth.

Here are other practical examples of DRI interventions:

Target Behavior: Hitting others. Incompatible Behavior: Reinforcing the child for keeping their hands in their pockets or folded in their lap.
Target Behavior: Jumping out of a seat. Incompatible Behavior: Reinforcing the child for sitting with their feet flat on the floor.
Target Behavior: Running in a hallway. Incompatible Behavior: Reinforcing the child for walking with “quiet feet.”

Choosing When to Use DRI in Behavior Plans

A behavior analyst carefully considers when to use a DRI procedure in an ABA therapy plan. When is DRI the best fit for behavior reduction? It is most effective when a clear and practical incompatible behavior can be easily identified and taught.

This strategy is an excellent choice for motor behaviors that you want to stop, such as hand-flapping, skin-picking, or getting out of a seat. The key is that the new, appropriate behavior must physically block the old one from occurring.

Consider using DRI in these situations:

The problem behavior is physical and has an obvious opposite.
The incompatible behavior is easy for the individual to perform.
The goal is to quickly and effectively stop a behavior from happening.
The incompatible behavior is a functional skill in its own right (e.g., holding a pencil to write instead of tapping it).

Unpacking Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO)

Finally, let’s explore Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior (DRO). The DRO procedure is another valuable technique in ABA therapy that works quite differently from DRA and DRI. In this approach, reinforcement is delivered as long as the problem behavior does not occur for a specific amount of time.

This focus on the absence of a behavior makes DRO a powerful tool in behavior analysis, especially for reducing serious or frequent problem behaviors. It reinforces any other behavior except the one you want to eliminate.

The Meaning of DRO and Its Application

Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) is a behavior reduction procedure where a reinforcer is provided contingent on the non-occurrence of an undesired behavior for a specified time. How is DRO used to address undesired behavior? It works by rewarding the individual for periods of time when the problem behavior is absent.

In a DRO procedure used in ABA therapy, a timer is set for a specific interval. If the individual goes the entire interval without engaging in the target behavior, they receive a reward. If the behavior occurs at any point, the timer is reset, and no reward is given for that interval.

This method is effective for a wide range of behaviors, including self-injury, aggression, and stereotypy. It sends a clear message: not engaging in this specific behavior leads to positive outcomes.

Various Types of DRO Procedures

While the core concept of DRO remains the same, there are different ways to implement a DRO procedure. These variations on the types of differential reinforcement allow therapists to tailor the approach to the individual’s needs, often by adjusting the time interval or the way it is applied.

The most common variation involves the scheduling of the time interval. The interval can be fixed, meaning it always stays the same (e.g., 5 minutes), or it can be variable, meaning it changes around an average time. The initial interval is typically set based on how often the behavior currently occurs, with the predetermined criterion being the complete absence of the behavior during that time.

Key elements that can be adjusted in a DRO procedure include:

Fixed-Interval DRO: Reinforcement is delivered if the behavior is absent for a consistent, set time.
Variable-Interval DRO: Reinforcement is delivered if the behavior is absent for a variable amount of time that averages to a predetermined length.
Momentary DRO: Reinforcement is delivered if the behavior is not occurring at the exact moment the interval ends.

Examples of DRO in ABA Settings

The DRO procedure is a flexible behavior reduction procedure used across many ABA settings. A common example is helping a child who repeatedly leaves their seat during homework time.

To implement DRO in ABA therapy for this scenario, a parent or therapist might set a timer for five minutes. If the child, John, stays at the table for the entire five minutes, he gets his favorite cracker as reinforcement. It doesn’t matter if he was doing homework, reading, or flipping pages—as long as he didn’t leave the table. If he gets up, the timer resets.

Here are more examples of the DRO procedure in action:

Target Behavior: A child screaming. DRO Plan: The child earns a sticker for every 10-minute interval they go without screaming.
Target Behavior: Self-injurious behavior. DRO Plan: An individual earns access to music for every 15 minutes they do not engage in the behavior.
Target Behavior: Cursing. DRO Plan: A teenager gets extra screen time if they go through a whole family dinner without cursing.

DRA vs DRI vs DRO: Comparing Differential Reinforcement Types

With a better understanding of each strategy, it’s helpful to directly compare these types of differential reinforcement. A behavior analyst must weigh the pros and cons of each to decide which is the best fit for a client’s specific situation in ABA therapy.

This comparison highlights the subtle but important differences in what each procedure reinforces and what skills it teaches. Let’s break down how DRA, DRI, and DRO stack up against each other in behavior analysis.

Table of Differences and Similarities Among DRA, DRI, and DRO

What are the main differences between DRA, DRI, and DRO? The primary distinction lies in what behavior earns reinforcement. DRA targets a specific alternative behavior, DRI focuses on an incompatible behavior, and DRO centers on the absence of a behavior, often called other behavior.

All three are differential reinforcement procedures designed to reduce problem behaviors using reinforcement. However, their methods and secondary outcomes, such as skill acquisition, vary significantly.

This table provides a clear comparison:

Feature	DRA (Alternative)	DRI (Incompatible)	DRO (Other)
What is Reinforced?	A specific, appropriate behavior that serves the same function as the problem behavior.	A specific behavior that cannot be done at the same time as the problem behavior.	The absence of the problem behavior for a set time period.
Teaches a New Skill?	Yes, it teaches a direct functional replacement skill.	Yes, it teaches an incompatible skill.	No, it does not explicitly teach a new replacement skill.
Example	Asking for a break instead of yelling to escape a task.	Squeezing a stress ball instead of hitting a desk.	Getting a token for not yelling for 5 minutes.

Situations Best Suited for Each Method

Knowing which situations are ideal for DRA, DRI, or DRO is key to successful ABA therapy. Each of these types of differential reinforcement is a tool designed for a specific job, and using the right one will lead to the best desired outcome.

DRA is ideal when you want to teach a functionally equivalent skill. If a specific behavior is occurring because it achieves something for the person (like getting attention), DRA is perfect for teaching a better way to get that same need met. DRI is the go-to when a physical behavior needs to stop and there’s an obvious opposite action.

Here’s a quick guide:

Use DRA when the goal is to teach a functionally equivalent communication or social skill.
Use DRI for motor behaviors like hitting, jumping, or hand-flapping.
Use DRO for severe or high-frequency behaviors that need to be reduced quickly, even before a replacement skill is taught. It’s also useful when a clear alternative or incompatible behavior isn’t available.

Decision-Making Guide For Selecting the Right Technique

So, how do I select the right reinforcement technique for my client? This decision should always be made by a qualified professional, like a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), after a thorough assessment. The process involves careful analysis of the behavior and the individual’s specific needs.

The first step in behavior analysis is to clearly define the problem behavior and conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) to understand why it’s happening. Once the function is known, the BCBA can explore appropriate alternatives.

A BCBA would follow these steps:

Identify the function: Is the behavior for attention, escape, access to an item, or sensory input?
Assess skills: Does the individual already have a skill that could be a replacement?
Consider the options:
- Is there a functional alternative to teach? If yes, consider DRA.
- Is there an incompatible behavior that can be easily reinforced? If yes, consider DRI.
- Is the behavior very dangerous or frequent and needs to stop immediately? If yes, DRO might be the best starting point.

Implementing Differential Reinforcement Effectively

Knowing about differential reinforcement techniques is one thing, but successful implementation is another. To be effective, these strategies require consistency, careful planning, and ongoing monitoring. In behavior analysis, how you apply the procedure is just as important as which one you choose.

Whether in a formal ABA therapy session or at home, following a clear set of steps can make all the difference in achieving your goals and promoting positive behaviors.

Steps to Apply DRA, DRI, and DRO in Therapy

What are the basic steps for implementing differential reinforcement? Regardless of whether you use a DRA procedure, DRI procedure, or DRO procedure in ABA therapy, the foundational steps are similar. A systematic approach ensures consistency and effectiveness.

First, you must pinpoint the exact behavior you want to reduce and identify a powerful reinforcer that will motivate the individual. Without a strong motivator, the plan is unlikely to succeed.

Here are the essential steps for implementation:

Define Behaviors: Clearly define both the problem behavior and the desired replacement behavior (for DRA/DRI).
Choose the Reinforcer: Select something highly motivating for the individual.
Set the Schedule: Determine the criteria for reinforcement (e.g., how often for DRO, every time for DRA/DRI initially).
Implement Consistently: Apply the plan consistently across all people and settings.
Collect Data: Track the frequency of both behaviors to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Mistakes to Avoid and Tips for Success

For successful implementation in ABA therapy, it’s crucial to be aware of common pitfalls. One of the biggest mistakes is inconsistency. If one person provides reinforcement for an appropriate behavior but another doesn’t, the behavior change process will be slow and confusing for the individual.

Another common error is choosing a weak reinforcer. The reward must be valuable enough to compete with the reinforcement the person gets from the problem behavior. A sticker might not be enough to motivate someone if the problem behavior gets them out of a difficult task.

To ensure success, keep these tips in mind:

Be Patient and Consistent: Behavior change takes time.
Choose Powerful Reinforcers: Make sure the reward is truly motivating.
Start Small: Set achievable goals at first (e.g., a short DRO interval).
Reinforce Immediately: Deliver the reward right after the appropriate behavior occurs.
Fade Reinforcement Gradually: Over time, reduce the frequency of reinforcement to promote maintenance.

Integrating Differential Reinforcement With Other ABA Interventions

Differential reinforcement is rarely used in isolation in behavior analysis. It is most powerful when integrated with other evidence-based ABA therapy interventions to address behavior problems and promote skill acquisition.

For individuals with developmental disabilities, a comprehensive plan might pair differential reinforcement with extinction—the process of actively ignoring the problem behavior. For example, when using DRA to teach a child to ask for a break, the therapist would praise the request (reinforcement) and also not allow the child to escape the task if they scream (extinction).

Here are other ways it can be integrated:

With Skill Acquisition Programs: Using DR to reinforce participation in learning new life skills.
With Visual Supports: Using a visual schedule to show when reinforcement is available.
With Prompting: Initially prompting the individual to use the alternative or incompatible behavior.
With Token Economies: The reinforcer for the desired behavior could be a token that can be exchanged for a bigger reward later.

Challenges & Considerations in Using DRA, DRI, and DRO

While differential reinforcement procedures are highly effective, they are not without challenges. Successful use in ABA therapy requires careful planning and consideration of potential obstacles. A key part of behavior analysis is anticipating these issues and having a plan to address them.

From ethical concerns to implementation hurdles, being aware of these considerations helps ensure that the focus remains on promoting appropriate, positive behaviors in a safe and respectful manner.

Addressing Ethical Concerns and Safeguards

When applying any behavior reduction procedure in ABA therapy, ethical concerns are paramount. What ethical concerns are important in applying DRA, DRI, and DRO? First and foremost, a behavior analyst must ensure the intervention is in the client’s best interest and enhances their quality of life.

The goals should be socially significant, meaning they help the person become more independent and integrated into their community. It’s unethical to target behaviors for change simply for the convenience of others. Safeguards must be in place to protect the individual’s dignity and rights at all times.

Key ethical considerations include:

Client Assent/Consent: The individual should agree to the goals whenever possible.
Least Restrictive Procedure: Always use the least intrusive method that is likely to be effective.
Social Validity: The goals, procedures, and outcomes should be acceptable to the client and their community.
Professional Competence: The plan must be designed and overseen by a qualified behavior analyst.

Overcoming Common Implementation Obstacles

Implementing differential reinforcement techniques can present several obstacles, especially when trying to maintain consistency in the natural environment. A common problem is the “extinction burst,” where the problem behavior temporarily gets worse before it gets better. A behavior analyst can prepare families and teachers for this.

Another challenge is finding a reinforcer that is powerful enough to compete with the automatic reinforcement of a problem behavior, such as sensory-seeking actions. This requires creativity and careful observation by the therapy team.

Here are common obstacles and ways to overcome them:

Inconsistent Application: Train all caregivers and provide clear, simple instructions.
Difficulty in the Natural Environment: Practice the skills in therapy before generalizing to school or home.
Extinction Bursts: Educate everyone involved that this is a normal part of the process and to stick with the plan.
Identifying the Function: If the plan isn’t working, a behavior analyst may need to re-assess the function of the problem behavior.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Reinforcement Plans

Effective ABA therapy is data-driven. Monitoring progress through continuous data collection is not optional—it is essential for determining if a reinforcement plan is working and for making informed adjustments to achieve the desired outcome.

A behavior analyst will track the frequency of both the problem behavior and the replacement behavior. This data provides objective evidence of whether the intervention is effective. If the data shows the problem behavior is not decreasing, the plan needs to be revised.

Adjustments are a normal part of the process and may include:

Changing the Reinforcer: The current one may have lost its motivating power.
Adjusting the DRO Interval: The time may be too long or too short.
Modifying the Replacement Behavior: The chosen alternative might be too difficult.
Re-evaluating the Function: The initial assessment of why the behavior occurs may have been incorrect.
Providing More Training: Caregivers may need more support to implement the plan correctly.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding DRI, DRO, and DRA is essential for anyone involved in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These techniques not only offer valuable strategies for promoting positive behavior change but also highlight the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs. By differentiating between these methodologies, practitioners can enhance their effectiveness and ensure that the chosen approach aligns with specific behavioral goals. As you navigate the complexities of ABA, remember that a thoughtful application of these reinforcement strategies can make a significant difference.

At Precious Care ABA, we provide clear, effective strategies to help children thrive through personalized ABA therapy. Serving families in Colorado, Utah, New Jersey, and Maryland, we specialize in defining and implementing interventions like DRI (Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior), DRO (Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior), and DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior). Our experienced team uses these powerful techniques to encourage positive behavior and promote lasting change. Contact Precious Care ABA today to learn how our customized approach can help your child grow and succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between DRA, DRI, and DRO in ABA?

The choice between these types of differential reinforcement depends on the behavior’s function and your goal. A behavior analyst in ABA therapy will assess the individual’s specific needs. Choose DRA to teach a functional replacement, DRI for a physical opposite, and DRO to reinforce the absence of a severe behavior.

Can these reinforcement techniques be used at home or school?

Absolutely. A major strength of differential reinforcement is its adaptability to various settings. With guidance from an ABA therapy professional, parents and teachers can effectively use these techniques at home and in school to encourage positive behaviors and teach appropriate alternatives in the moments they are most needed.

What are some beginner-friendly examples of DRI, DRO, and DRA?

For beginners in ABA therapy: A DRA example is reinforcing asking for a toy (alternative behavior) instead of grabbing it. A DRI example is reinforcing squeezing a toy (incompatible behavior) instead of hand-flapping. A DRO example is giving a high-five for every minute with no yelling, reinforcing its absence.

What is DRI vs DRO vs DRA in ABA? Definitions and Uses