This cluster shows how to pick and use DRA, DRO, and DRL the right way. You will learn when to add a special signal, why long DRO still works, and how to keep problem behavior low without stopping all rewards. These tips help BCBAs stop resurgence, protect good behavior, and keep kids safe and happy.
Differential reinforcement procedures — DRA, DRO, and DRL — are some of the most widely used tools in ABA. Used correctly, they reduce problem behavior while building better alternatives. Used carelessly, they set the stage for relapse. Research in this cluster covers how to choose the right procedure, how to implement it with fidelity, and how to plan for the real-world threats to treatment gains.
Resurgence is one of the biggest risks when using DRA. When the alternative reinforcement schedule gets thinned or disrupted, problem behavior can return — even when extinction has been in place for a long time. Studies show that training the alternative behavior in multiple contexts and gradually fading the therapy context back in can cut renewal risk significantly. Removing just one reinforcer from a package still produces some resurgence, so plan for it rather than hoping it will not happen.
Implementation fidelity has a large effect on outcomes. Even small commission errors during DRO — accidentally reinforcing problem behavior — can eliminate the suppression effect and sometimes make responding worse. This means checking fidelity sheets and providing ongoing coaching to caregivers and staff is not optional. It is a core part of making the procedure work.
When extinction is not possible, reinforcer quality matters most. Studies show that boosting the quality of the alternative response's reinforcer — not just its size or how often it is delivered — produces the largest drops in problem behavior. Learners also often prefer DRA packages that mix functional and everyday nonfunctional reinforcers, and this preference does not come at the cost of behavior reduction.
Common questions from BCBAs and RBTs
DRA stands for differential reinforcement of alternative behavior. You reinforce a specific replacement behavior while withholding reinforcement for the problem behavior.
Train the alternative behavior in multiple settings and gradually fade the therapy context back in during maintenance. Research shows this cuts renewal risk significantly compared to training in one place only.
Not reliably. Studies show that adding punishment suppresses the target behavior during treatment but does not consistently block resurgence when reinforcement later worsens.
Even small commission errors can wipe out behavior suppression and sometimes make the problem behavior worse. That is why fidelity monitoring is critical — check data sheets every session.
Use DRA when you have a clear and functional alternative behavior to teach. Use DRO when the goal is simply to reduce problem behavior and no specific replacement behavior is ready to reinforce.