The fifth time that Tyler was late for school, he was given a detention. However, the following day he was late for school again. In this situation it is likely that:
A) Tyler has been negatively reinforced for being late for school.
B) detention is an effective form of punishment, and Tyler's behavior will eventually change.
C) punishment has not occurred, because the operant response of being late for school was not suppressed.
D) Tyler has not formed a cognitive map of the shortest route to school and consequently takes the long way and is frequently late.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order for punishment to occur, the operant response must be suppressed. Since Tyler was late for school again the following day, it is likely that the detention did not effectively punish his behavior. Therefore, the best choice is C. It is possible that Tyler is receiving negative reinforcement for being late, as he may receive attention or avoid an unpleasant situation by being late. However, without further information it cannot be determined for sure. Likewise, it is possible that detention may eventually lead to a change in behavior, but based on the information given it is not the best choice. Option D is not relevant to the situation described.

The Fifth Time That Tyler Was Late for School, He