Automatic vs. Socially Mediated

What is automatic reinforcement?

The behavior itself produces the reinforcing consequence, without another person's mediation.

What is socially mediated reinforcement?

Another person mediates the consequence following the behavior.

A child rocks back and forth and produces sensory stimulation from the movement. What type of reinforcement might be involved?

Automatic reinforcement.

The behavior itself produces the consequence.

A child says “juice,” and their parent gives them juice. What type of reinforcement is this?

Socially mediated reinforcement.

Another person delivers the consequence.