Healthy Reinforcers
Healthy Reinforcers
Sources:
Healthy reinforcers are discussed by Jordan Harbinger in various contexts:
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Breaking Porn Addiction: Jordan talks about identifying and managing triggers by creating alternative, healthier reinforcers. He suggests engaging in fulfilling activities and hobbies that align with personal values as a way to replace harmful habits. For example, if religious involvement is significant, increasing engagement in church activities can serve as a healthy substitute for coping mechanisms like porn 1.
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Overcoming Negativity Bias: explains how to shift focus from negative experiences to positive ones, thereby promoting mental well-being. He recommends "growing other resources" by tilting toward beneficial experiences throughout the day. This involves being mindful and disengaging from negative inputs like distressing news to avoid reinforcing negative neural pathways 2.
In both cases, fostering healthy reinforcers involves replacing harmful habits or inputs with positive, fulfilling activities and experiences. This can help in reducing the negative impact on mental and emotional health.