Reinforcement is a consequence that makes a behavior more likely in the future. Positive reinforcement adds something after the behavior. Negative reinforcement removes something unpleasant after the behavior.
Example
Positive: a learner completes a task and gets a sticker, and completes tasks more often. Negative: a learner asks for a break and the task is removed, and asks for breaks more often.
Key points
- “Positive” and “negative” mean added and removed. They do not mean good and bad.
- Both kinds increase behavior. Punishment is what decreases behavior.
- Negative reinforcement is not the same as punishment.
Exam tip
Ask two questions: did the behavior increase, and was something added or removed? That tells you which term applies.
Common mistake
Reading “negative” as “bad”. Positive means something is added; negative means something is removed. Both increase behavior.
Quick check
A child completes work and the task is removed, and work completion rises. Which type? Negative reinforcement.
Keep studying
RBT glossary · Punishment · Motivating operation · Token economy · Flashcards · Study guide
Independent study resource, not affiliated with the BACB or Pearson VUE.