Question

Match the type of operant learning with its definition: 1\. An unpleasant stimulus is presented to decrease behavior. 2\. An unpleasant stimulus is removed to increase behavior. 3\. A pleasant stimulus is presented to increase behavior. 4\. A pleasant stimulus is removed to decrease behavior. a. positive reinforcement b. negative reinforcement c. positive punishment d. negative punishment

Short answer

The correct match is: 1. Positive Punishment, 2. Negative Reinforcement, 3. Positive Reinforcement, 4. Negative Punishment.

Step-by-step solution

Matching phrase 1

1. An unpleasant stimulus is presented to decrease behavior. This description aligns with the definition of Positive Punishment. In Positive punishment, something unpleasant is added or presented after a behavior, which decreases the frequency of the behavior.

Matching phrase 2

2. An unpleasant stimulus is removed to increase behavior. This description aligns with Negative Reinforcement. In Negative Reinforcement, an unpleasant stimulus is removed after a behavior, which increases the frequency of the behavior.

Matching phrase 3

3. A pleasant stimulus is presented to increase behavior. This description aligns with Positive Reinforcement. In Positive Reinforcement, something considered pleasant is added or presented after a behavior, which increases the frequency of the behavior.

Matching phrase 4

4. A pleasant stimulus is removed to decrease behavior. This description fits the definition of Negative Punishment. In Negative Punishment, something considered pleasant or wanted is removed after a behavior, which decreases the frequency of the behavior.

Key concepts

Positive Punishment

Positive punishment involves introducing an undesirable outcome or stimulus following an unwanted behavior with the intent of reducing that behavior. Despite the word 'positive,' in this context, it does not mean 'good.' Instead, it simply denotes the addition of something. For instance, if a student talks out of turn in class, the teacher might assign extra homework. The extra work serves as a positive punishment because it's something added to the student’s experience to discourage interrupting behavior.

To enhance understanding, one should recognize the immediate effect of positive punishment in discouraging the behavior. However, it should be used cautiously as it can produce fear, anxiety, and even encourage aggression if applied excessively or inappropriately.

Negative Reinforcement

Negative reinforcement is often misunderstood to mean punishment, but it actually refers to the removal of an unpleasant stimulus to encourage a behavior. For example, a car beeping until the seatbelt is fastened removes the annoying sound when the desired action is taken. This increases the likelihood that the person will fasten their seatbelt in the future to avoid the irritating beep.

Understanding negative reinforcement involves recognizing that it strengthens a behavior because a negative condition is stopped or avoided as a consequence of the behavior. A common misstep is confusing negative reinforcement with punishment, but remembering that reinforcement always aims to increase behaviors helps to distinguish the two.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a widely known and effective strategy to promote desirable behaviors by adding a favorable stimulus after the desired behavior is exhibited. A classic example is giving a child a treat when they finish their homework. This approach not only tends to be highly successful in increasing the frequency of the targeted behavior but also fosters a positive association with the behavior.

Clarification of positive reinforcement can be beneficial by emphasizing its basis in reward. When discussing this concept, underscore the positive effects it has on learning and behavior shaping. However, it's important to ensure the reinforcement is appropriate and maintains its value over time for continued effectiveness.

Negative Punishment

Negative punishment, or the removal of a positive stimulus following an undesired behavior, aims to decrease the frequency of that behavior. It contrasts with positive punishment by taking away something desirable instead of adding something unpleasant. For instance, if a teenager stays out past curfew, a parent might take away their video game privileges for a week. The absence of gaming is meant to discourage the late-night outings.

When applying this concept, it is vital to make the consequences directly related to the undesired behavior to be effective. An important insight into negative punishment is understanding that it can lead to confusion or resentment if not clearly linked to the behavior, so consistency and clarity are essential when it is employed.