What does differential reinforcement of the behavior and of incompatible behavior involve?

• A. Reinforcing the target behavior and an incompatible alternative
• B. Punishing the target behavior
• C. Withholding reinforcement
• D. Reinforcing any alternative

Answer: (A)

This concept centers on using differential reinforcement to shape behavior by rewarding two things at once: the behavior you want to see and a behavior that cannot occur at the same time as the unwanted one. By reinforcing the target behavior, you increase its likelihood. By also reinforcing an incompatible alternative, you provide a strong, attainable path to reinforcement that cannot be performed alongside the problem behavior, which naturally suppresses the undesired action. For example, if a dog jumps to greet people, you can reinforce sitting and calmly facing the person (an incompatible alternative to jumping) while giving no reinforcement for the jumping. Over time, the dog learns that the calm, sit-and-greet behavior yields rewards, so the likelihood of jumping decreases. In practice, you’d deliver reinforcement for both the target behavior and the incompatible behavior and withhold reinforcement for the problem behavior, gradually shaping the desired pattern.