What is an AO?
An Abolishing Operation (AO) decreases the effectiveness of a reinforcer.
Keyword: Satiation.
If you just ate a huge Thanksgiving dinner (Satiation), the value of food goes DOWN. You will NOT work for a sandwich.
Using AOs to Reduce Behavior
We use AOs in NCR. By giving a child attention all day for free (Satiation), we create an AO for attention. They don't need to scream to get it because they are already "full" of attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About AOs
What is the "Abative Effect"?
It means the behavior decreases (abates). An AO has an abative effect on behavior.