Reinforcement

Knowledge Check

Question:

An almost three year old has learned to take turns with his brother during short games. All of a sudden, he does not want to take turns anymore, which distresses his brother.

What issues related to reinforcement might be at work?

Check your answer

The toddler may have lost interest in the games themselves.
The games may be taking too long and thus satiating the toddler.

Question:

When implementing reinforcement providing large amounts of the reinforcer should be avoided. Why?

Check your answer

To avoid satiation
To provide multiple opportunities for the toddler to practice the behavior (or skill)

Question:

When implementing reinforcement it may be necessary to pair reinforcers (such as social reinforcers with primary reinforcers). Why?

Check your answer

Since toddlers with ASD are less likely than their typically developing peers to value secondary reinforcers (e.g. social praise), pair these with more valued reinforcers from the beginning.

As the toddler becomes more motivated by secondary reinforcer, fade the primary reinforcer.

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