“The way positive reinforcement is carried out is more important than the amount.” – B.F. Skinner

Sticker or star charts, behavior checklists, and token jars – many of us are familiar with these reinforcement systems. While we know from research that positive reinforcement is more effective in the long-term than punishment in decreasing challenging behaviors, without the right strategies of delivery, positive reinforcement may not be successful in behavior change.

How do we carry out positive reinforcement to make the most impact? Although the principles of positive reinforcement may seem simple, applying them to reduce challenging behavior and increase appropriate behavior often requires a planned, systematic approach.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when delivering reinforcement:

When am I delivering reinforcement? Timing and implementation of reinforcement is critical in its success! Reinforcement delivered immediately after desired behavior is powerful in initially teaching behaviors and skills. We can’t always deliver reinforcement immediately after behavior, though. Token systems that are planned systematically, and the use of intermittent reinforcement also are effective when individualized.
Is reinforcement meaningful? Does what mattered to me last week or yesterday still matter to me today? Have I had too much of the same reinforcement, taking away its strength, and we need to explore other types of reinforcement?
What am I reinforcing? Am I reinforcing the targeted, appropriate behaviors? Reinforcement is effective when we apply it systematically and intentionally to those behaviors we want to increase.

Let us know if you need a Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to help with building individualized reinforcement and consequence strategies in the home, school, and/or community!

Ability ABA

Building strengths and skills across the lifespan

info@abilityaba.com