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.”
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