What is the outcome intended with differential reinforcement of high rates (DRH)?

Differential reinforcement of high rates (DRH) is a strategy used within behavior analysis to increase the frequency of desirable behaviors. The goal of DRH is to encourage individuals to engage in a higher rate of specific positive behaviors, providing reinforcement when these behaviors are demonstrated at or above a predetermined level.

For instance, if a child is working on increasing their participation in class discussions, a behavior analyst might employ DRH by providing praise or rewards whenever the child participates a certain number of times within a set time frame. This approach effectively shapes behavior by reinforcing higher rates of positive actions, thereby establishing a pattern of increased engagement.

In contrast, the other options focus on differing outcomes. While some options might address decreasing negative behaviors or simply reinforcing infrequent positive behaviors, their goals do not align with the primary intention of DRH, which specifically targets enhancing the frequency of positive behaviors. Additionally, attempting to extinguish unwanted behaviors does not encapsulate the principle of DRH, as this technique is primarily concerned with increasing desired behaviors rather than the outright elimination of undesired ones.