How does reinforcement differ in a Differential Reinforcement Schedule?

In a Differential Reinforcement Schedule, reinforcement is administered selectively, meaning that only certain responses are reinforced based on specific criteria or conditions. This approach focuses on encouraging desired behaviors while reducing or eliminating undesirable ones. By reinforcing only particular behaviors, trainers can shape and modify a dog's actions more effectively, promoting learning and behavioral improvement.

This method contrasts with giving reinforcement without criteria, where any behavior that occurs may receive reinforcement, thus lacking the specificity required to promote desired behaviors. Additionally, a uniform application to all behaviors would not align with the principles of differential reinforcement since it would not distinguish between targeted and non-targeted behaviors. Lastly, while reinforcement can be intermittent and unpredictable in certain reinforcement schedules, differential reinforcement specifically emphasizes the conditions under which reinforcement is provided, rather than being random or uniform across all behaviors.