Sonia's mother is often busy and doesn't pay very much attention to her. When Sonia cries or screams, her mother comes over and scolds her. Though she doesn't like being scolded, Sonia prefers getting some attention to having no attention at all. Sonia learns that when she wants her mother's attention, she should scream or cry. What is the reinforcer in this situation?
A)the mother's attention
B)the screaming
C)Sonia
D)the mother's busyness
E)the learned response

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reinforcer in this situation is the mother's attention, as it is the consequence of Sonia's behavior (crying or screaming) that increases the likelihood of her repeating the behavior to gain attention.

Sonia's Mother Is Often Busy and Doesn't Pay Very Much