Rewarding Essential Skills

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) for Independence, Cooperation, and Participation

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) is the ABA strategy that reinforces a positive behavior that physically cannot happen at the same time as the challenging behavior—for example, staying with the group instead of eloping or hands in lap instead of hitting. By delivering immediate rewards or tokens whenever learners perform the incompatible skill, BCBAs, special-education teachers, and parents replace problem behaviors with actions that build independence and social success.

Why use DRI?

• Rapid, research-backed reductions in problem behavior. Studies show reinforcing an incompatible response can cut challenging behavior by 70 – 90 % within weeks.
• Stronger tolerance, flexibility, and emotional regulation. Replacing escape- or attention-maintained behaviors with cooperative alternatives grows essential life skills without confrontation.
• Lasting independence through systematic fading. As learners master the skill, reinforcement schedules can shift to token boards, timers, or delayed rewards—promoting resilience and self-management.