Steve has a rather strong fear of social situations. He used to try to go to parties and other social events, but his anxiety would usually overwhelm him. When experiencing these negative emotions, he would often leave parties early, a behaviour that allowed him to reduce or eliminate his anxiety. According to the principles of operant conditioning, Steve's escape behaviour will be more likely to occur in the future because it is being ___________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Steve's behavior of leaving parties early to reduce or eliminate his anxiety is an example of negative reinforcement. In negative reinforcement, a behavior is strengthened because it removes or diminishes a negative outcome or aversive stimulus, in this case, anxiety.

Steve Has a Rather Strong Fear of Social Situations