In a heroin user, when can a negative reinforcement of drug-taking behaviour occur?
A) If the user overdoses and almost dies
B) When a person uses the drug for the first time
C) If the withdrawal symptoms start and they are alleviated by another injection
D) If the user sees a needle or syringe

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Negative reinforcement occurs when an action is taken to stop or reduce an unpleasant situation. In the context of heroin use, withdrawal symptoms are highly unpleasant, and taking more heroin to alleviate these symptoms is a classic example of negative reinforcement. The drug use is reinforced because it removes or diminishes the negative state of withdrawal.

In a Heroin User, When Can a Negative Reinforcement of Drug-Taking