What are the two key processes involved in differential reinforcement procedures?

Differential reinforcement procedures are designed to encourage desired behaviors while decreasing undesired behaviors. The two key processes involved in these procedures are reinforcement and extinction.

Reinforcement is the process of providing a favorable outcome following a specific behavior, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future. In differential reinforcement, reinforcement is given for the appropriate behavior you want to strengthen, thereby promoting its occurrence.

Extinction, on the other hand, involves withholding reinforcement for a previously reinforced behavior, which leads to a decrease in that behavior over time. When used in conjunction with reinforcement, extinction helps to diminish unwanted behaviors, as the individual learns that their previous behaviors no longer produce the same results. Thus, by strategically reinforcing desired behaviors and implementing extinction for unwanted ones, practitioners can effectively shape behavior.

This understanding is crucial for implementing effective behavioral interventions and strategies in various settings.