When Skyler was first training his dog, Smooches, to heel he would give Smooches a treat when she stayed close during walks. Now Smooches stays right by Skyler's side, even when she is not on her leash. In this case,
A)the dog treats were negative reinforcers for staying close.
B)the staying close was a positive reinforcer for receiving dog treats.
C)the staying close was a negative reinforcer for receiving dog treats.
D)the dog treats were positive reinforcers for staying close.

Question

When Skyler was first training his dog, Smooches, to heel he would give Smooches a treat when she stayed close during walks. Now Smooches stays right by Skyler's side, even when she is not on her leash. In this case, ​
A)the dog treats were negative reinforcers for staying close. ​
B)the staying close was a positive reinforcer for receiving dog treats.
C)the staying close was a negative reinforcer for receiving dog treats.
D)the dog treats were positive reinforcers for staying close.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The dog treats acted as positive reinforcers for the desired behavior, which in this case was staying close. Positive reinforcement involves adding something pleasant following a behavior, increasing the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated.

When Skyler Was First Training His Dog, Smooches, to Heel