“I don’t think he understands what I’m reinforcing him for!” is a not uncommon objection to the use of reinforcement for appropriate behavior, especially with our non-vocal or early learners. Some great news: our little guys don’t have to “understand.” Reinforcement is a process which occurs whether or not the individual “knows” what they are being reinforced for.
There is an underlying order and system to what we are teaching. When the supervisor or BI reports a success, at times it may seem like a random skill and although the parent or family member may be happy with the progress they may wonder why we chose that particular goal. Within quality ABA programs, there is a very solid reason for each and every goal worked on.
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