What does differential reinforcement involve?

Differential reinforcement involves the process of encouraging desirable behavior while diminishing undesired behavior by applying specific reinforcement strategies. In the context of this question, this means that when an individual exhibits appropriate behavior, that behavior is reinforced or rewarded, thereby increasing the likelihood that such behavior will occur again in the future. At the same time, inappropriate behavior is ignored, which reduces the instances of that behavior by not providing any form of reinforcement or attention.

This approach relies on the principle that behaviors that are positively reinforced are more likely to be repeated, while those that are not reinforced tend to decrease over time. By focusing on reinforcing only the appropriate behavior, practitioners help to establish clear expectations and social norms for the individual.

The other options do not align with the principles of differential reinforcement. For instance, rewarding both appropriate and inappropriate behavior would muddy the reinforcement process and fail to effectively shape behavior. Ignoring appropriate behavior would not provide the necessary reinforcement and could lead to a decrease in that behavior over time. Lastly, punishing bad behavior does not fit within the framework of differential reinforcement, as this method centers on reinforcing positive behaviors rather than employing punishment, which can lead to negative emotional responses and potentially worsen the undesired behavior.