What is the key characteristic of DRO?

The key characteristic of Differential Reinforcement of Other behavior (DRO) is that it involves providing reinforcement when a specific undesired behavior does not occur during a specified period of time. This approach is designed to reduce the frequency of the targeted behavior by reinforcing the absence of that behavior.

In implementing DRO, the focus is on increasing the occurrence of appropriate behaviors simply by ensuring that the undesirable behavior is not exhibited. This method helps shift the individual's focus away from the undesired behavior, promoting more positive behavior patterns. By reinforcing the absence of the behavior rather than the presence of alternative behaviors, DRO effectively encourages the individual to refrain from engaging in the targeted behavior, ultimately leading to behavior improvement.

Thus, the reinforcement is contingent upon not engaging in the specified behavior, which is the hallmark of DRO.