These four types are differentiated by the type of positive stimulus-also known as a reinforcer-that is used. In addition to the four methods of training based on the theory of operant conditioning, positive reinforcement can be further subdivided into four types. This makes it an excellent choice for both training animals and encouraging good behavior in young children, among other situations. Positive reinforcement is most effective when the person or animal you are training is not given to bad behavior and is eager to please, and it can improve your bond at the same time. It all depends on the person or animal you are trying to teach, the behavior displayed, and the desired outcome. For some situations, negative punishment may be much more effective than positive punishment, or positive reinforcement may be the best choice. These four types of conditioning are all valid and effective ways to teach or train however, their effectiveness will vary based on the context. Recommended reading: Building Resilience in Children: 30+ Tips for Raising Resilient Kids Is Positive Reinforcement More Effective? Positive reinforcement adds a desirable stimulus to the situation, while negative reinforcement removes an undesirable stimulus, both in the service of reinforcing the behavior that was displayed.Ī parent allowing their child to borrow the family car when they get good grades is positive reinforcement, and a parent removing the child’s curfew when he or she gets good grades is negative reinforcement. Similarly, positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement have the same goal-to encourage a certain behavior-but they use different methods. An example of positive punishment is spanking a child when he or she is rude to a stranger. On the other hand, positive punishment involves introducing an undesirable stimulus (i.e., a punishment) to discourage a specific behavior. An example of this is giving a child a treat when he or she is polite to a stranger. Positive PunishmentĪlthough both methods include the word “positive,” we know that this does not mean they are “good.”Īs noted above, positive reinforcement refers to introducing a desirable stimulus (i.e., a reward) to encourage the behavior that is desired. Negative punishment (also called extinction): a desirable stimulus is removed to discourage the behavior.Įach of these four methods of conditioning can be implemented to teach, train, and manage behavior.Negative reinforcement: an undesirable stimulus is removed to encourage the behavior.Positive punishment: an undesirable stimulus is introduced to discourage the behavior.Positive reinforcement: a desirable stimulus is introduced to encourage certain behavior.The model defined by Skinner goes further, outlining four methods of conditioning: This theory grew from Thorndike’s “law of effect” which stated that a behavior that is followed by pleasant or desirable consequences is likely to be repeated, while behavior that is followed by undesirable consequences is less likely to be repeated (McLeod, 2018). Skinner’s model of operant conditioning is based on the assumption that studying a behavior’s cause and its consequences is the best way to understand and regulate it. A Brief Look at B.F Skinner and His Operant Conditioning Model In fact, positive reinforcement is only one of the four types of conditioning according to famed behaviorist B. Punishment has always been a popular method for teaching-whether it was for training children, pets, or adults. The Psychology of Positive Reinforcement TheoryĪlthough it sounds like a simple idea, it was not always the “go-to” method for teaching. It’s a positive parenting method used for a variety of purposes and in a wide range of contexts, as it capitalizes on the good behaviors that are already being displayed, rewarding the natural tendencies towards good behavior in the individual you are working to train. The desirable stimulus reinforces the behavior, making it more likely that the behavior will reoccur. Positive reinforcement refers to the introduction of a desirable or pleasant stimulus after a behavior. What is the Meaning of Positive Reinforcement?
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