A Quick Guide to Reinforcement: The Most Misunderstood Tool in Behavior Change
Reinforcement is one of the most powerful—and misunderstood—tools in behavior change. Whether you’re a parent teaching routines, an educator managing a classroom, or an HR leader shaping workplace culture, understanding reinforcement can make your strategies more effective.
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), reinforcement means adding or removing something after a behavior to increase the chances it will happen again. It’s not about bribing or spoiling—it’s about shaping behavior through consistent, meaningful feedback. For example, praising a student for staying on task, or recognizing an employee for meeting a deadline, can reinforce positive behavior.
There are two main types: positive reinforcement (adding something desirable, like praise or rewards) and negative reinforcement (removing something unpleasant, like a nagging reminder, after the desired behavior occurs). Used thoughtfully, both encourage growth without relying on punishment.
Reinforcement isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for one child or employee might not work for another. That’s why ABA emphasizes individualization and data to determine what truly motivates behavior.
