The notion of differentially reinforcing low rates of undesirable behavior (DRL) is examined. Further, the status of the full session DRL strategy as alternative to punishment is questioned in context of a strictly operant definition of punishment. A reexamination of the data from some studies reveals the possibility that Ss respond to said DRL procedures as if to punishment. Finally, the value of a search for alternatives to punishment is questioned in light of the above findings and a shift in research emphasis together with more definitional clarity is recommended. (Author/SBH)