Definition
Reinforcement is a fundamental concept in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that refers to the process of increasing the likelihood of a behavior occurring again by following it with a consequence that is perceived as favorable. Reinforcement strengthens behavior — either by adding something desirable (positive reinforcement) or removing something aversive (negative reinforcement).
Explain Like I’m 5
Reinforcement is like getting a treat for doing something good. If you clean your room and get a cookie, you’ll want to clean it again next time. It’s a way to help you learn what’s worth doing by giving you something nice — or taking away something yucky — when you do it.
Why It Matters
Reinforcement is the backbone of most behavior change programs. Whether you’re teaching a child to communicate, helping a teen complete homework, or supporting an adult in gaining independence, reinforcement strategies shape behavior in a lasting and meaningful way. It’s used across ABA sessions to teach new skills and reduce challenging behavior by strengthening alternatives.
Examples in Practice
- A child receives praise (“Nice job asking!”) after requesting help — and starts asking more often.
- A teen finishes their chores to avoid nagging — and is more likely to do them again next time.
- A therapist offers tokens for each correct response in a session, which the child can exchange for a toy.
Key Points to Remember
- Reinforcement always increases behavior. If it doesn’t, it’s not reinforcement.
- It can be positive (adding something) or negative (taking something away).
- Reinforcement is individualized — what works for one person might not work for another.
- The timing and consistency of reinforcement greatly affect its effectiveness.
Common Misunderstandings
- Negative reinforcement is not punishment. It strengthens behavior by removing something unpleasant.
- Reinforcement isn’t bribery. Bribery is used to stop bad behavior after it happens; reinforcement is planned to encourage good behavior before it happens.
- “It doesn’t work” often means it’s not truly reinforcing to the individual. Reinforcers must be carefully selected.
Related Terms
- Positive Reinforcement
- Negative Reinforcement
- Punishment
- Reinforcer
- Extinction
- Schedules of Reinforcement
History and Background
The concept of reinforcement was formalized by B.F. Skinner in the mid-20th century as part of operant conditioning theory. Skinner demonstrated through lab research that behaviors could be shaped and maintained using controlled consequences. Reinforcement remains one of the most empirically supported tools in the ABA field.
How It’s Measured
Behavior analysts track the effects of reinforcement by measuring:
- Rate of behavior increase over time
- Latency or speed of responding after reinforcement is introduced
- Durability of behavior (generalization and maintenance)
Data is often graphed to visualize trends, helping clinicians adjust reinforcement schedules accordingly.
Applications in ABA
- Teaching communication, social, or academic skills
- Promoting independence in daily routines
- Encouraging participation in therapy sessions
- Supporting behavior reduction by reinforcing appropriate alternatives
Ethical Considerations
- Reinforcement should be used in a way that is respectful and dignified.
- Practitioners must avoid over-reliance on contrived rewards and instead promote natural reinforcement when possible.
- The selection of reinforcers should involve client assent and preference assessments.
- Reinforcement should never coerce; it should empower.
Clarifying the Concept
Reinforcement is often confused with bribery, reward systems, or punishment.
Remember:
- Reinforcement increases behavior.
- Punishment decreases it.
Bribery is reactive and usually unethical; reinforcement is proactive and purposeful.