Differential Reinforcement ABA: A Complete Guide to DRI ABA

Challenging behavior does not disappear on its own. In Applied Behavior Analysis, behavior changes when reinforcement changes. Differential reinforcement ABA is a structured strategy that strengthens appropriate behavior while reducing problem behavior. One common form is dri aba, which stands for Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior.

This article explains how differential reinforcement aba works, how dri aba is used in therapy, and what research says about its effectiveness.

What Is Differential Reinforcement ABA?

Differential reinforcement ABA is a behavior intervention that reinforces one behavior while withholding reinforcement for another.

The goal is simple:

• Increase appropriate behavior
• Decrease challenging behavior

Instead of using punishment, differential reinforcement aba focuses on strengthening replacement skills. According to National University, differential reinforcement procedures are widely used in ABA to modify behavior by reinforcing desired responses and not reinforcing undesired ones.

Types of Differential Reinforcement ABA

There are several forms of differential reinforcement aba:

1. DRI ABA (Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior)

In dri aba, a behavior that cannot happen at the same time as the problem behavior is reinforced.

Example:

• Problem behavior: Hitting
• Incompatible behavior: Hands in pockets

A child cannot hit while hands are in pockets. Reinforcement is delivered for keeping hands down.

2. DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior)

Reinforces a different appropriate behavior that serves the same function.

Example:

• Problem behavior: Screaming for attention
• Alternative behavior: Saying “excuse me”

3. DRO (Differential Reinforcement of Other Behavior)

Reinforcement is provided when the problem behavior does not occur during a set time interval.

4. DRL (Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates)

Used when reducing frequency, not eliminating behavior.

What Makes DRI ABA Unique?

DRI ABA focuses specifically on incompatible behaviors.

This means the replacement behavior physically prevents the problem behavior.

Examples of dri aba in practice:

• Sitting calmly instead of running
• Holding a stress ball instead of nail biting
• Raising a hand instead of shouting

Because the behaviors cannot occur at the same time, reinforcement shifts behavior patterns over time.

Research Supporting Differential Reinforcement ABA

Differential reinforcement procedures are well established in behavior analysis literature. Applied Behavior Analysis Education explains that differential reinforcement is one of the most widely supported behavioral interventions due to its emphasis on positive reinforcement.

Research across decades shows that differential reinforcement aba reduces challenging behaviors when implemented consistently and paired with functional assessment.

How Differential Reinforcement ABA Works Step by Step

Step 1: Conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

Therapists identify why the behavior occurs.

Common functions:

• Attention
• Escape
• Access to items
• Sensory input

Step 2: Select the Replacement Behavior

For dri aba, the replacement must be incompatible.

Example:

• Problem behavior: Throwing toys
• Incompatible behavior: Hands folded

Step 3: Reinforce Immediately

Reinforcement must be:

• Immediate
• Consistent
• Meaningful to the child

Step 4: Withhold Reinforcement for Problem Behavior

If throwing toys previously gained attention, attention is no longer provided for that behavior.

Case Example: DRI ABA in Action

Child behavior:

• Grabbing materials during group work

FBA reveals attention function.

DRI ABA plan:

• Teach child to keep hands folded in lap
• Provide praise and token for hands in lap
• Ignore grabbing attempts

Over time:

• Grabbing decreases
• Appropriate participation increases

This is a structured example of differential reinforcement aba using dri aba.

Why Differential Reinforcement ABA Is Preferred Over Punishment

Research shows reinforcement-based strategies are effective and less intrusive than punishment.

Differential reinforcement aba:

• Teaches new skills
• Reduces reliance on consequences
• Builds independence
• Encourages positive interaction

The focus remains on strengthening what to do, not only stopping what not to do.

Common Mistakes in DRI ABA Implementation

Effective differential reinforcement aba requires:

• Clear definition of behaviors
• Consistent reinforcement
• Proper timing
• Ongoing data collection

If reinforcement is inconsistent, problem behavior may continue.



Differential Reinforcement ABA in Autism Treatment

In autism therapy, differential reinforcement aba is often used to address:

• Aggression
• Self-injury
• Elopement
• Disruptive vocalizations

DRI ABA is especially useful when physical incompatibility is easy to define.

Example:

• Elopement replaced with sitting in chair
• Self-hitting replaced with hands on desk

Data collection tracks frequency and duration.

How Long Does Differential Reinforcement ABA Take?Progress depends on:

• Consistency
• Function of behavior
• Reinforcement strength
• Environmental support

When applied correctly, reductions in behavior can occur within weeks.

Conclusion

Behavior change requires structure and consistency. Differential reinforcement aba provides a practical, research-based method for reducing challenging behavior while teaching meaningful alternatives. If your child struggles with aggression, impulsivity, or disruptive behaviors, dri aba strategies may be part of an individualized treatment plan.

At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, our clinical team conducts comprehensive assessments and designs data-driven ABA programs tailored to each child’s needs. Contact Achieve Behavioral Therapy today to schedule a behavioral consultation and learn how structured reinforcement strategies can support your child’s growth.

FAQs

Sources

• https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-1-4419-1698-3_1903
• https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-differential-reinforcement/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2294903/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8995837/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25913017/
• https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-1-4419-1698-3_1905
• https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-1-4419-1698-3_1904
• https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/what-is-meant-by-differential-reinforcement-in-the-context-of-applied-behavior-analysis/
• https://www.cde.state.co.us/cdesped/ta_fba-bip