Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

What is the focus of Differential Reinforcement of Alternative behavior (DRA)?

1. To reinforce alternate behaviors that serve the same function

2. To completely ignore inappropriate behaviors

3. To extinguish problematic behaviors

4. To increase the frequency of all behaviors

The correct answer is: To reinforce alternate behaviors that serve the same function

Differential Reinforcement of Alternative behavior (DRA) specifically focuses on reinforcing an appropriate alternative behavior that serves the same function as the undesired behavior. This means that when a individual engages in a desired behavior instead of the undesired one, they receive positive reinforcement, thereby increasing the likelihood that the alternative behavior will occur in the future. This approach acknowledges that the undesired behavior often fulfills a particular need or function for the individual. By teaching and reinforcing an appropriate alternative that meets the same need or function, practitioners can effectively reduce the occurrence of the undesired behavior while helping the individual develop more socially acceptable ways to achieve their goals. The other options do not accurately capture the goal of DRA. Ignoring inappropriate behaviors or entirely extinguishing them fall outside the scope of DRA, which is more focused on promoting positive behavior rather than simply eliminating negative behavior. Lastly, the objective of DRA is not to increase the frequency of all behaviors, but rather to strategically increase the frequency of specific, desirable behaviors that replace problematic ones.