With respect to Educational Psychology, which one of the following completely…
2016
With respect to Educational Psychology, which one of the following completely describes punishment?
- A.
Introduction of positive as well as negative reinforcer
- B.
Introduction of positive reinforcer only.
- C.
Withdrawal of positive reinforcer and introduction of negative reinforcer
- D.
Withdrawal of positive as well as negative reinforcer
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Correct answer: C
Punishment in behavioral psychology refers to procedures that reduce or eliminate an undesired behavior.
Presenting an aversive stimulus (positive punishment): for example, giving a reprimand or detention to decrease an unwanted behavior.
Removing a positive reinforcer (negative punishment): for example, taking away privileges to decrease an unwanted behavior.
Important distinction: negative reinforcement and punishment are different. Negative reinforcement strengthens a behavior by removing an aversive stimulus (for example, stopping an unpleasant noise when a response occurs). That is not punishment.
The option that reads 'Withdrawal of positive reinforcer and introduction of negative reinforcer' correctly identifies removal of a positive reinforcer as a form of punishment but misuses the term 'negative reinforcer.' The accurate second element for punishment is the introduction of an aversive stimulus (positive punishment).
Concise correct definition: Punishment decreases behavior by either introducing an aversive stimulus or withdrawing a positive stimulus.