Mom and Dad think it is really funny and laugh when their 2-year-old,Bruce,says dirty words.When Bruce is sent home from kindergarten because of swearing,they don't understand why he cusses.Now when he cusses at home,they ignore the cussing.(They don't think it's cute anymore.)Laughing,in this example,is
A)positive reinforcement.
B)a negative reinforcer.
C)a primary reinforcer.
D)a neutral stimulus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Laughing is acting as positive reinforcement, as it is reinforcing and increasing the behavior of the child swearing. The parents' laughter is sending the message to the child that swearing is acceptable and entertaining, leading to the child continuing to exhibit this behavior. However, when the parents stop laughing and begin ignoring the behavior, it becomes a neutral stimulus as it no longer has any reinforcing or punishing qualities.

Mom and Dad Think It Is Really Funny and Laugh