PSY5280_ Advanced Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis Behavior Modification-
Reinforcement, Punishment and Extinction
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Capella University
PSY5280: Advanced Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis
Behavior Modification-Reinforcement, Punishment and Extinction
Introduction
Behavior is influenced, stimulated or shaped by using various tool, which include positive
and negative reinforcements, punishments (positive and negative) and extinction. Positive and
negative reinforcements by definition constitute of those that seek to encourage or support the
onset or growth of a behavior, though adopt different approaches (Cooper, Heron &
Heward, 2020). For instance, positive reinforcements seek to strengthen a behavior by providing
a reward to encourage a subject to increase the likelihood of repeating the behavior, build or
nurture more of that desired behavior. Negative in contrast involves the removal of negative
stimuli to increase the chances of reoccurrence of a positive behavior (Cooper, Heron &
, 2
Heward, 2020). For example, students who arrive late to school may miss a morning snack from
their teacher. This encourages punctuality among students. something pleasurable as a reward
after the occurrence of the behavior.
Punishments refers to imposition of predefined or undefined unpleasant outcomes to a
subject for misdeeds or undesirable behaviors (Kubanek, Snyder & Abrams, 2015). Similarly,
punishment can be positive or negative, whereby positive punishment entails imposition of
aversive stimuli following a misdeed or misconduct to discourage a subject from repeating the
unwanted behavior (Cooper, Heron & Heward, 2020). An example is reprimanding or increasing
the quantity of chores after a subject’s failure to complete a few assigned chores. Negative
punishments in contrast refers to removal of a privilege from a person after a misdeed to help
discover their mistakes through suffering. An example is the disconnection from the home Wi-Fi
or reduction of TV time during a favorable program to reduce prospects of recommitting the
mistake (Kubanek, Snyder & Abrams, 2015). Lastly, behavior extinction involves gradual
weakening of conditioned responses, resulting to the progressive decreasing and disappearance
of an unwanted behavior (Martin & Pear, 2019). The following tables provide examples of
implications of the above-defined terms based on my personal life experiences.
Implications: Reinforcement, Punishment and Extinction
Positive Reinforcement
Antecedent Behavior Consequence
I received applauses from I commit to practice and I score a goal in each of the
teammates for a good improving efficiency in skills, oncoming matches and make
performance in a soccer match. such as dribbling, speed, several assists leading to
The coach promised to reserve unique tricks, passing the ball scoring. I am integrated into
a position for me among the and accurate shooting. the main team.
starting eleven if I demonstrate