What is the primary focus of using response cost in behavior management?

• A. Increasing future undesirable behaviors
• B. Ignoring bad behavior to reduce it
• C. Removing reinforcement for inappropriate behavior
• D. Rewarding every behavior to avoid misbehavior

Answer: (C)

The primary focus of using response cost in behavior management is to remove reinforcement for inappropriate behavior. This approach involves taking away a specific reward or privilege when undesired behavior occurs, thereby making it less likely that the behavior will continue in the future. The underlying principle is that by reducing access to rewards when a child engages in inappropriate behavior, the likelihood of that behavior reoccurring decreases, as the child learns that such behavior leads to negative consequences.

This method is rooted in the principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors are modified based on the consequences that follow them. Rather than simply ignoring bad behavior or rewarding all behaviors to prevent misbehavior, response cost specifically targets the removal of reinforcement, making it a strategic choice in behavior management.