Examining Effects of Fidelity Error Sequence during Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior

Abstract

Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) is commonly used to treat challenging behavior and is effective when implemented as designed. However, it is likely that implementers will make errors during DRA that can negatively affect client outcomes. The sequence in which fidelity errors are experienced may influence the impact of those errors; however, few studies have directly studied how the sequence of errors impacts responding. The present evaluation used a reversal design to investigate the effects of fidelity level sequence during DRA on rates of target and alternative responding. Data suggest that experiencing ascending sequences of implementation, where implementation improves across time, may be more detrimental than experiencing descending sequences, where implementation degrades across time. These data highlight the importance of staff training and supervision during initial implementation of DRA procedures.

Disciplines

Bioinformatics

Subject Area

Behavioral sciences; Bioinformatics; Behavioral psychology

Department

Behavior Analysis

First Advisor

Jones, Stephanie H.

Second Advisor

Morris, Cody

Third Advisor

Yencha, Michael

Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

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