One of your fellow students is continually late to class. The professor has tried numerous verbal warnings and recently took points away from the student's grade. The student continued to show up late. Based on the above, the professor's actions are consistent with which of the following reinforcement techniques?
A) Negative reinforcement
B) Extinction
C) Positive reinforcement
D) Avoidance learning
E) Rewards enhancement

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The professor's actions are consistent with extinction, which involves removing reinforcement to decrease a behavior. By taking points away from the student's grade, the professor is removing a positive reinforcement (grades) to decrease the behavior of being late to class. However, if the professor were to provide positive reinforcement (such as praise or rewards) for being on time, this would be consistent with positive reinforcement.

One of Your Fellow Students Is Continually Late to Class