What is Reward alternative behavior?
Rewarding alternative behavior involves providing positive consequences for behaviors that can replace the unwanted behavior, building a competing behavioral repertoire.
How it works
Rather than punishing the unwanted behavior, this technique strengthens desirable alternatives that serve similar functions. It is based on the principle that behavior follows reinforcement: if healthy alternatives are more rewarding than the unwanted behavior, they will naturally replace it. This approach is more effective and more humane than punishment because it teaches what to do rather than just what not to do.
Applied example
A child who frequently interrupts class is praised and given a privilege token each time they raise their hand and wait to be called on. The alternative behavior (hand-raising) is strengthened through reward, gradually replacing the interrupting without punishment.
Why it matters
Rewarding alternative behavior fills the behavioral vacuum that punishment creates, ensuring that as unwanted behavior decreases, desirable behavior increases to take its place.
