Which type of behaviors does DRO effectively address?

DRO, or Differential Reinforcement of Other behaviors, is a behavioral intervention that effectively addresses problematic behaviors by reinforcing the absence of those behaviors over a specified period. When an individual is not displaying the unwanted behavior for a designated time, they receive reinforcement. This strategy encourages the individual to refrain from engaging in the problematic behavior and can also highlight and reinforce alternative behaviors that are more appropriate.

By focusing on reinforcing the absence of the undesired behavior, the individual learns that not engaging in that behavior leads to positive outcomes. This approach does not merely address the problematic behaviors directly but fosters the development of alternative behaviors as the absence of the undesired behavior is reinforced. Thus, by promoting these alternative behaviors, DRO effectively reduces the occurrence of the problematic behavior over time.

The emphasis on reinforcing the absence of the problematic behavior is crucial, which differentiates it from other options that might suggest that either all behaviors are treated the same, or that non-behavioral issues are relevant in this context. DRO specifically targets the problematic behaviors by using reinforcement strategies to increase desirable alternatives.