Reinforcer choice as an antecedent versus consequence

Peterson et al. (2016) asked a simple timing question. Should kids pick their prize before the work or after?

They worked with children with autism. Each child did two kinds of sessions. In one, the child chose a toy before starting the task. In the other, the child chose the toy only after finishing the task.

The team used an alternating-treatments design. They flipped the order each day to see which timing worked better.

Half the kids did more work when they picked the reinforcer first. Most kids said they liked choosing first better.

No child worked harder when the choice came after the task. The antecedent choice won the popularity contest every time.

Zigman et al. (1997) found that choice is only good if it leads to better stuff. Peterson’s study adds when you offer the choice also matters.

Diaz de Villegas et al. (2020) showed preschoolers like getting rewards right as the behavior happens. Peterson’s data line up: earlier is better.

Hardesty et al. (2023) compared immediate versus later reward delivery in typical kids. Both studies agree kids prefer faster, sooner options.

You can boost motivation without buying new toys. Just move the choice to the front of the session. Ask, "What do you want to work for?" before you give instructions. Kids respond more and complain less. It costs zero extra time and works for half your clients right away.