QQuestionPsychology
QuestionPsychology
Which of the following best defines negative reinforcement?
A. The taking away of an unpleasant stimulus to increase certain behavior or response.
B. The adding of a pleasant stimulus to increase a certain behavior or response.
C. The adding of an unpleasant stimulus to decrease a certain behavior or response.
D. The taking away of a pleasant stimulus to decrease a certain behavior.
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this psychology problem step-by-step:
Step 2:: Understanding Reinforcement Terminology
Reinforcement is a key concept in behavioral psychology that aims to increase the likelihood of a specific behavior occurring again. There are two types of reinforcement: positive and negative.
Step 3:: Breaking Down Negative Reinforcement
Negative reinforcement is often misunderstood. It does NOT mean punishment. Instead, it involves: - Removing an unpleasant stimulus - The goal is to INCREASE a desired behavior - The "negative" refers to the removal of something, not a negative outcome
Step 4:: Analyzing the Answer Choices
- Option A: $$\checkmark$$ This CORRECTLY defines negative reinforcement
Let's examine each option carefully: - Option B: Describes positive reinforcement (adding a pleasant stimulus) - Option C: Describes punishment (adding an unpleasant stimulus) - Option D: Describes negative punishment (removing a pleasant stimulus)
Step 5:: Example to Illustrate Negative Reinforcement
Consider a student who studies to avoid the unpleasant feeling of potential academic failure. By studying, they remove (negate) the anxiety, which increases their studying behavior.
Final Answer
The taking away of an unpleasant stimulus to increase certain behavior or response.
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