Which of the following best describes differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI)?

• A. Reinforcing desirable behavior while ignoring disruptive behavior
• B. Reinforcing an activity that cannot occur at the same time as the undesirable behavior
• C. Providing reinforcement for any appropriate behavior
• D. Encouraging a specific replacement behavior for outbursts

Answer: (B)

Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) is effectively utilized in behavior modification by focusing on reinforcing behaviors that cannot physically coexist with unwanted behaviors. In this context, when you reinforce a behavior that is incompatible with the undesirable behavior, you create a scenario where the individual cannot engage in both at the same time, thereby reducing the occurrence of the undesirable behavior.

For example, if a student tends to shout out answers during class, a teacher might reinforce the behavior of the student raising their hand to answer questions. Since the act of raising a hand is incompatible with shouting out, reinforcing this behavior effectively decreases the disruptive shouting behavior.

The other options describe different behavior management strategies but do not reflect the core principle of DRI. Reinforcing desirable behavior while ignoring disruptive behavior is more generally known as differential reinforcement of other behaviors (DRO). Providing reinforcement for any appropriate behavior does not specify the incompatibility feature that is crucial in DRI. Lastly, encouraging a specific replacement behavior for outbursts does suggest an alternative behavior but does not emphasize the inherent incompatibility that defines DRI.