Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the difference between positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement?

1. Positive reinforcement rewards good behavior, negative reinforcement punishes bad behavior

2. Positive reinforcement increases a behavior, negative reinforcement decreases a behavior

3. Positive reinforcement is used for punishing a behavior, negative reinforcement is used for rewarding a behavior

4. Positive reinforcement increases a behavior, negative reinforcement rewards good behavior

The correct answer is: Positive reinforcement increases a behavior, negative reinforcement rewards good behavior

Positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement both involve increasing a behavior. However, positive reinforcement uses a reward, such as praise or a treat, to encourage a desired behavior while negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus, such as taking away a chore or task. Option A is incorrect as both positive and negative reinforcement aim to increase desired behaviors, not punish bad behavior. Option B is incorrect as negative reinforcement does not decrease a behavior, but rather increases it by removing an aversive stimulus. Option C is incorrect as positive reinforcement is not used for punishment and negative reinforcement is not used for rewarding behavior.