Types of Reinforcement

Question 1

Reinforcers

Answer 1

is a consequence that strengthens a behavior
-can be things, people, or activities
-something that increases the likelihood that a specific behavior or response will occur

Question 2

Positive Reinforcement

Answer 2

Adding a pleasant stimulus after a desired behavior to encourage its repetition
A reinforcing event is made contingent on the desired behavior
Ex: rewarding with chocolates
Behavior will be strengthened
Lasts longer

Question 3

Negative Reinforcement

Answer 3

Removing an unpleasant stimulus to encourage the desired behavior
A consequence that strengthens behavior by being subtracted from the situation
Does not last as long

Question 4

Shared Reinforcement

Answer 4

Engaging in an activity with others to reinforce behavior, often adding social accountability and motivation
Using activities with others as reinforcers is effective not only because the reinforcer is a powerful one, but also because it brings another force to bear… the other person!
Accountable to each other
-Motivates/push each other
–Ex: Who is going to help you? (Ebay)

Question 5

Imagined (covert) Reinforcement

Answer 5

Mentally visualizing a reward or positive outcome to reinforce a behavior
Not as powerful
Advantage: completely portable and easily accessible
-Imaging pleasant and relaxing scenes
-Be realistic…person who has images of themselves after dieting
–Ex: Athletes (encourage yourself)

Question 6

Verbal - self Reinforcement

Answer 6

Using self-encouragement and affirmations to reinforce behavior
Self-encouragement following the desired behavior
Brings things up from the underground!
Fake it until you make it
Convince yourself
-Good, I did it.
-Why is this often omitted?
–Think it’s silly
–Think it is bragging
–Long habit of self criticism