In reinforcement-based therapy, what is the primary focus?

In reinforcement-based therapy, the primary focus is on enhancing behaviors through strategic reinforcement. This approach relies on the principle that behaviors can be encouraged and increased by applying positive reinforcement in response to desired actions. This means providing rewards or positive outcomes when a certain behavior is demonstrated, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future.

The effectiveness of this method lies in its ability to shape and modify behavior in a constructive way, promoting a positive learning environment where individuals learn to associate specific actions with favorable consequences. This can lead to long-term behavioral changes, as individuals become motivated to engage in the behaviors that have received reinforcement.

The other options present different strategies but do not align with the fundamental principles of reinforcement-based therapy. For example, the elimination of all forms of reinforcement would contradict the goal of enhancing behavior, while establishing clear behavioral expectations may be part of a broader strategy but does not focus specifically on reinforcement. Relying solely on medication also shifts the approach away from behavioral strategies, which are central to reinforcement-based therapies.