Reinforcement Systems

Special Education District of Lake County Jennifer Penzenik

re·in·force·ment ˌrēinˈfôrsmənt/ ! noun

the process of encouraging or establishing a belief or pattern of behavior, especially by

encouragement or reward.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is naturally occurring !

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!!!!

“When naturally occurring reinforcers are not sufficiently powerful, the wise teacher looks for more powerful ones”

Types of Reinforcers

Class Category Examples

Primary Reinforcers • Edible Food, Liquid

• SensoryVisual, Auditory, Tactile, Olfactory, or Kinesthetic e

Secondary Reinforcers • Tangible • Privilege

Stickers, Toys, etc., Line Leader, Art Activity

• Generalized • Social

Tokens, Points High Fives, Proximity, Hugs, Tickles

Planning the Reinforcement System

Step 1: “Consider the age, interests, and appetites, of the person whose behaviors you wish to strengthen.” !Step 2: “Consider the behavior you wish to strengthen through reinforcement.” !Step 3: “List potential reinforcers considering what you know of the person, his or her age, interests, likes and dislikes, and the specific behavior you have defined.” (Reinforcement Sampling) !Step 4: Reinforcement Menu !Step 5: “Make a record of the behavior.”

Types of Reinforcer Visuals

Punch Cards !

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Token Economy !

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Puzzles !

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Punch Cards

Token Economy

Puzzles

Reinforcement Rules • Put the majority of your energy into the Reinforcer Sampler !

• Do not take away a token, puzzle piece, or punch !

• Only use identified reinforces for behavior management (hide when not being used for reinforcement) !

• Use the reinforcer system for the identified target behavior !

• Be timely in praising and reinforcing !

• Remain consistent with all members of the team

References

Alberto, P. & Troutman, A. (1999) Applied Behavior Analysis for Teachers. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc.