Misfit Minute 10: Reinforcement vs. Bribery – What Teachers and BCBAs Need to Know

The Misfit Behaviorists - Practical Strategies for Special Education and ABA Professionals

Reinforcement isn’t a trick, a loophole, or a bribe—it’s an evidence-based strategy that builds real behavior change. In this quick Misfit Minute, Caitlin shares a practical way to explain the difference between reinforcement and bribery—perfect for staff training or team refreshers.
🧠 Key Takeaways:
🔄 Reinforcement is proactive, planned, and delivered after the desired behavior
🚫 Bribery is reactive, often given during or after problem behavior to stop it
💼 Think of it like a paycheck: you work first, then get paid—that’s reinforcement!
🧠 Reinforcement is rooted in decades of research and builds long-term independence
🗣️ Use simple analogies (like paychecks) to help staff and families understand the difference
🛠️ Resources & Mentions:
💡 Great clip to use in staff meetings or paraprofessional trainings
📄 Want a free reinforcement vs. bribery handout? Check the Facebook group!
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