deprivation condition
An environmental state where access to a reinforcer has been restricted, increasing the individual's motivation to engage in behavior to obtain that reinforcer.
Full Definition
A deprivation condition refers to a state where an individual has been deprived of access to a particular reinforcer for a specified period, thereby increasing the motivating operation for behaviors that historically produced that reinforcer. This concept is fundamental to understanding motivation and the effectiveness of reinforcement procedures. In clinical practice, mild deprivation conditions are sometimes used to increase the effectiveness of reinforcement-based interventions, though ethical considerations must be carefully considered. Editors should ensure that discussions of deprivation conditions include appropriate ethical safeguards and do not involve basic needs.
Usage
Usage note: Include ethical considerations; distinguish from establishing operations more broadly.
In Context
- "A brief deprivation condition was implemented to increase the effectiveness of the token reinforcement system." — Intervention procedure
- "The deprivation condition increased motivation for appropriate requesting behavior." — Clinical observation