Question

Using a ______-based approach to reduce destructive behavior is likely to be most effective when people ____ the popularity of the behavior.

A) Fear, underestimate
B) Reward, underestimate
C) Punishment, overestimate
D) Incentive, overestimate

Answer 1

The most effective approach to reduce destructive behavior is using punishment when people overestimate the popularity of the behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is C) Punishment, overestimate.

In operant conditioning, punishment is used to decrease a behavior. Using a punishment-based approach is likely to be most effective when people overestimate the popularity of the behavior, as the punishment will deter them from engaging in it.

For example, if people believe that a certain destructive behavior is widely accepted and popular, they may be more likely to engage in it. However, if they are made aware of the negative consequences and are punished for engaging in that behavior, they are more likely to reconsider or avoid it altogether.