What is differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI)?

Differential reinforcement of incompatible behavior (DRI) focuses on reinforcing behaviors that cannot occur simultaneously with undesirable behaviors. This approach effectively reduces the likelihood of an undesired behavior by promoting an alternative behavior that is incompatible with it. For example, if a child is prone to running around the classroom, reinforcing them for sitting quietly instead would not only reward the appropriate behavior but also actively prevent the undesired behavior from happening at the same time, as the child cannot sit and run around simultaneously.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the concept of DRI. Rewarding a child for not cursing in class represents an example of differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) rather than incompatible behavior. Offering rewards for specific task completion does not emphasize the incompatibility of behaviors. Finally, reinforcing any behavior that occurs less frequently does not target incompatible behaviors and is not specific to the principle of DRI. Thus, understanding that DRI is solely about reinforcing behaviors that cannot coexist clarifies why the correct answer is centered on reinforcing physically incompatible behaviors.