A New York Times reporter used reinforcement theory to shape her husband's behavior. When her husband did something she liked, such as throw a dirty shirt in the hamper, she would give him a hug. This is an example of:
A) extinction.
B) continous reinforcement.
C) positive reinforcement.
D) partial reinforcement.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is an example of positive reinforcement, where the reporter is increasing the likelihood of her husband repeating the behavior by giving him a hug. It is not continuous reinforcement as the husband is not being rewarded for every single behavior he exhibits, nor is it extinction as there is no removal of a previously given reinforcement. It is also not partial reinforcement as the reward is consistently given for the desired behavior.

A New York Times Reporter Used Reinforcement Theory to Shape