What does DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior) reinforce?

The correct answer is that DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior) reinforces behaviors that serve as alternatives to undesired behaviors. This approach is used in behavioral interventions to encourage individuals to replace maladaptive or challenging behaviors with more appropriate or functional alternatives. By reinforcing these alternative behaviors, practitioners help individuals learn new skills that can satisfy their needs without resorting to the undesired behaviors.

DRA focuses specifically on teaching and promoting behaviors that are functionally similar to the undesired ones but are more socially acceptable or constructive. This method not only reduces the occurrence of the problem behavior by providing a viable alternative but also enhances the individual's ability to navigate social situations effectively.

Other options, such as reinforcing behaviors that are different from all others, suggest an indiscriminate reinforcement approach, which does not focus on the functional relationship between the behavior and its consequences. Reinforcing behaviors that do not need reinforcement or forgetting undesirable behaviors entirely misses the point of the DRA technique, which aims to teach functional alternatives rather than disregarding behaviors without addressing the underlying needs of the individual. Through DRA, emphasis is placed on cultivating positivity and growth by reinforcing behaviors that lead to better outcomes.