Question

Which of the following best describes negative reinforcement?

a. The dog works to avoid something he considers unpleasant
b. Saying "NO" to a dog whenever the dog disobeys
c. Not petting the dog unless he obeys
d. Correcting the dog with a leash and collar when the dog disobeys

Answer 1

(C) Not petting the dog unless he obeys

Step-by-step explanation:

Negative reinforcement is defined as a type of operant conditioning where a pleasurable reinforcement is taken away from the conditioning target, in order for the target to exhibit the expected behavior. Thus, since a dog finds being petted pleasurable, not giving the dog a petting unless it obeys commands is a form of negative reinforcement.

The other options are components of operant conditioning: (A) is a form of negative punishment, while (B) is a form of positive punishment. (D) is possibly a form of shaping.