Final answer:
In the Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates (DRL) procedure, the occurrence of the problem behavior is reinforced, but only when it happens less frequently than a predetermined rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of operant conditioning, the Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates (DRL) procedure is specifically designed to reduce the frequency of a target behavior by reinforcing only those instances when the behavior occurs less often than a predetermined criterion. In DRL, it's the occurrence of the behavior that is reinforced, but only when it happens at a reduced rate compared to the baseline level of frequency. Essentially, a DRL schedule rewards an individual when they slow down the rate at which they engage in a specific behavior. This is a form of partial reinforcement, where not every instance of the behavior is reinforced, in contrast to other schedules like a fixed ratio or a fixed interval reinforcement schedule.
For example, in a fixed ratio reinforcement schedule, a response is reinforced after a set number of responses regardless of the time passed, leading to a high and stable rate of response after each reinforcement. In contrast, a fixed interval reinforcement schedule provides reinforcement for the first response after a set period of time, resulting in a characteristic scalloped pattern of responding as individuals respond more frequently as the time for the next reinforcement approaches. DRL schedules are crucial in situations where the goal is to reduce a behavior rather than to eliminate it completely or increase its frequency.