What aspect does Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) focus on?

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) emphasizes the importance of reinforcing behaviors that cannot occur simultaneously with the undesired behavior being targeted for reduction. This approach is based on the premise that if a behavior that is incompatible with the undesired behavior is reinforced, the likelihood of the undesired behavior occurring will decrease.

In DRI, the focus is on identifying a specific behavior that inherently cannot occur at the same time as the undesired behavior. For example, if a child is frequently engaging in disruptive behavior during class, reinforcing positive behaviors such as sitting quietly or engaging in appropriate tasks would be a way to utilize DRI. The incompatible behavior acts as a substitute that provides similar functions (like engagement or attention) without the negative outcomes of the undesired behavior.

This technique is particularly effective because it not only discourages the negative behavior but also provides the individual with a positive outlet. By focusing on reinforcing behaviors that cannot coexist with the problematic behavior, DRI helps shape a more adaptive repertoire of behaviors while reducing the maladaptive ones.