dangers

Maura (Wicklow) · First Steps Joined: 12 Jan 2008 Posts: 5

Is there any danger I should be aware of in using reinforcers?
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Maura from Wicklow

Dr Ken Kerr · Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2008 10:01 pm Post subject:

Hi Maura

Well, I would suggest the over use of any one type of reinforcers may prove to be problematic. The end goal of a lot of our work is to teach children/adults to develop independent skills. It is important that the schedule of reinforement is changed to a intermittment one. That is, reinforce occasionally; not all the time.

This is important as learners should not be taught to expect something AFTER EVERY behaviour.

Mix the type of reinforcers and when and how they are delivered.

If you find yourself as an educator getting stuck into a rut in terms of reinforcer delivery or that you have concerns over dependency you need to bring it to a planning table.

Hope this helps...
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Dr Ken Kerr
Director of Services
The Developing Ability Partnership

Gerry M · First Steps Joined: 12 Jan 2008 Posts: 8

Hi

Ken, I could have done with your advice when we started out. We used too much reinforcement all the time, it was difficult changing it but I suppose now we know better.

I remember you saying 'try something different' and I keep this in mind even in regard to reinforcer delivery, sometimes teachers or tutors or even parents get stuck and think just because behaviour occurs that you HAVE TO DELIVER a reinforcer....

Hope this makes sense

Gerry
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Gerry
Waterford