Consider the influence of consequences on behaviour.Which alternative correctly describes the consequences that increase the frequency of behaviour,and decrease it on the other?
A) Both positive and negative reinforcement increase the frequency of behaviour. Punishment decreases it.
B) Positive reinforcement increases the frequency of behaviour. Punishment decreases it.
C) Positive reinforcement increases the frequency of behaviour. Both negative reinforcement and punishment decrease it.
D) Positive reinforcement increases the frequency of behaviour. Negative reinforcement decreases it.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both positive and negative reinforcement are consequences that increase the frequency of a behavior. Positive reinforcement involves adding a desirable stimulus (such as giving a treat to a dog for sitting) to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus (such as turning off a loud alarm when you wake up) to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

On the other hand, punishment is a consequence that decreases the frequency of a behavior. Punishment involves adding an aversive stimulus (such as scolding or spanking a child for misbehaving) to decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Therefore, alternative A is the correct answer.

Consider the Influence of Consequences on Behaviour