Differential ReinforcementReinforcement is a fundamental concept in Applied Behavior A... is a behavior modification technique in which reinforcement is provided for responses that meet specific criteria, while other responses are not reinforced. This strategy is used to shape desired behaviors by reinforcing responses that vary along dimensions such as frequencyIn Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), frequency refers to the ..., durationDuration refers to the length of time that a behavior occurs..., intensity, or accuracy, while extinguishing or not reinforcing undesired responses.
Example
A teacher uses differential reinforcement to shape a student’s speaking behavior during class discussions. At first, the teacher reinforces any effort the student makes to speak, regardless of how quiet or brief it is. Over time, the teacher begins to reinforce only louder and more complete sentences, gradually shaping the behavior to meet the desired criteria (speaking loudly and in full sentences).