Reinforcement or Bribe? Decoding the Difference in ABA and Beyond

We've all been there: "If you finish your homework, you can play video games." Or, "If you're quiet in the store, I'll buy you a candy bar." Are these examples of reinforcement or bribery? The line can seem blurry, especially when we're trying to motivate behaviour in children (or even adults)! Let's break down the key differences, particularly within the context of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Key differences can be found in their timing, intended purpose, consistency, and ethical implications.

Timing

Reinforcement: The reward comes after the target behaviour. "You cleaned your room? Great! Now you can watch a show."

Bribery: The reward comes before the behaviour. "You can watch a show if you clean your room", and the child watched a show before the behaviour of ‘room cleaning’ was carried out.

Purpose

Reinforcement: To teach and strengthen positive behaviours for the benefit of the learner and the larger community.

Bribery: To manipulate someone into doing something or avoiding something for the benefit of the briber.

Consistency

Reinforcement: Part of a consistent plan, used regularly to shape behaviour.

Bribery: Often inconsistent, used only when someone wants something or attempts to avoid something.

Ethical Considerations

Reinforcement is used to help an individual learn new skills, or increase desired behaviours. Bribery can be used to manipulate an individual, and is often seen as unethical.

The Other Reinforcements: A Guide

Reinforcement is a cornerstone of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and a powerful tool for shaping behaviour in various settings, from classrooms to workplaces and homes. But reinforcement isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. There are different types, each with its own nuances and applications.

First, let's clarify a common misconception: "negative" reinforcement isn't punishment. Instead, it's about removing something unpleasant to increase a behaviour.

Positive Reinforcement

This involves adding something desirable after a behaviour occurs, making that behaviour more likely to happen again. For example, giving a child a sticker for completing their homework; praising an employee for a job well done.

Negative Reinforcement

This involves removing something unpleasant after a behaviour occurs, also making that behaviour more likely to happen again. For example, taking a Panadol to get rid of a headache; putting on a seatbelt to silence the annoying car alarm.

What's reinforcing for one person may not be for another. It's crucial to identify reinforcers that are meaningful to the individual. Also, overuse of a particular reinforcer can lead to satiation, meaning it loses its effectiveness. Varying reinforcers helps prevent this.

Reinforcement Done Right: Effective Schedule Strategies

Ever wondered why some behaviours are so persistent while others fade away? The secret often lies in reinforcement schedules. In the world of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and beyond, these schedules play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining behaviour.

A reinforcement schedule is a rule that determines when and how often the target behaviour is reinforced. It's the blueprint for how we deliver rewards, whether it's praise, or anything else that increases the likelihood of a behaviour repeating.

There are four primary reinforcement schedules:

Fixed Ratio (FR)

Reinforcement is delivered after a fixed number of responses. For example, a factory worker gets paid for every 10 widgets they produce.

Variable Ratio (VR)

Reinforcement is delivered after a variable number of responses. Example: Slot machines, where payouts occur after varied attempts.

Fixed Interval (FI)

Reinforcement is delivered after a fixed amount of time has passed. For example, getting paid at the end of each month.

Variable Interval (VI)

Reinforcement is delivered after a variable amount of time has passed. For example, supervisor spot checks.

When teaching a new behaviour, start with continuous reinforcement (i.e., reinforce it every time it occurs), then gradually transition to intermittent reinforcement. Once the behaviour is established, switch to a ratio or interval schedule to maintain it.

Understanding reinforcement schedules empowers us to create effective strategies for shaping behaviour in ourselves and others. By applying these principles thoughtfully, we can unlock the potential for positive change.