When Joe thinks about his sorely missed girlfriend, he drinks alcohol, which helps dull his feelings. This BEST illustrates:
A) positive reinforcement.
B) negative reinforcement.
C) positive punishment.
D) negative punishment.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Negative reinforcement is when a behavior is strengthened by the removal or avoidance of an aversive stimulus. In this case, the aversive stimulus is Joe's emotional pain caused by missing his girlfriend, and drinking alcohol removes or numbs that feeling, thereby reinforcing the behavior of drinking.

When Joe Thinks About His Sorely Missed Girlfriend, He Drinks