What should effective reinforcement strive to avoid?

Effective reinforcement should strive to avoid creating a reliance on external rewards because this can lead to a situation where individuals only engage in desired behaviors when a reward is present. This reliance can diminish intrinsic motivation, where the individual engages in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than for a reward. Building a system of reinforcement that focuses on internal motivation encourages learners to engage with the behavior for the sake of the behavior itself, promoting autonomy and long-term engagement in the activity. Fostering independence in learning and encouraging positive behavior change are important aspects of effective reinforcement, as they empower learners to take ownership of their learning process and develop self-sustaining habits. Similarly, promoting gradual skill acquisition supports a more holistic learning experience, ensuring that skills are mastered over time rather than just in exchange for immediate rewards.