Operant conditioning, a behaviorist-based treatment approach, involves using reinforcement and punishment as tools to control and maintain behaviors. Punishment, known as aversive behavior control, is used in different methods. A common suggestion made to patients that belong to this category of conditioning is to wear a rubber band on the wrist and snap it whenever thinking an undesirable thought. Which of the following paradigms does that method demonstrate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Snapping a rubber band on the wrist when thinking an undesirable thought, known as thought stopping, is a type of positive punishment. Positive punishment involves applying an aversive stimulus in response to an undesirable behavior. This method is not often used in clinical settings. Positive punishment is thought to merely suppress behavior, not eliminate it.

Operant Conditioning, a Behaviorist-Based Treatment Approach, Involves Using Reinforcement and Punishment