Reinforcement in behaviorist terms is described as what?

• A. Increases behavior.
• B. Decreases behavior.
• C. Has no effect on behavior.
• D. Only works with punishment.

Answer: (A)

Reinforcement strengthens a behavior by making it more likely to happen again. In behaviorist theory, reinforcement is any consequence that increases the probability of the behavior occurring in the future. It can be positive reinforcement—adding something desirable after the behavior, like giving a treat or praise—or negative reinforcement—removing an aversive stimulus after the behavior, such as turning off a loud noise when the desired action is performed. Both forms raise the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated.

This is why the correct answer is that reinforcement increases behavior. The alternative ideas—wealth of choices that say it has no effect, decreases behavior, or only works with punishment—do not fit the concept. Punishment, not reinforcement, is defined by decreasing a behavior; reinforcement’s purpose is to strengthen rather than deter.