The "positive" in positive reinforcement and positive punishment means that:
A)the target behavior increases in frequency.
B)an unpleasant stimulus is removed upon the occurrence of the target behavior.
C)a stimulus is presented upon the occurrence of the target behavior.
D)the target behavior increases or decreases to adaptive levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "positive" in positive reinforcement and positive punishment means that a stimulus is presented upon the occurrence of the target behavior. This can either increase the likelihood of the behavior (positive reinforcement) or decrease the likelihood of the behavior (positive punishment). Option A is only true for positive reinforcement, not positive punishment. Option B is referring to negative reinforcement, not positive reinforcement or positive punishment. Option D is not consistent with the definition of positive reinforcement or positive punishment.

The "Positive" in Positive Reinforcement and Positive Punishment Means That