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The distinction between positive and negative reinforcement: use with care
1University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
The Behavior Analyst
|April 6, 2012
Summary
The distinction between positive and negative reinforcement in behavior analysis is ambiguous and lacks functional significance. While deeply embedded, these terms should be used cautiously due to potential confusion.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Experimental analysis of behavior
Background:
- The traditional distinction between positive and negative reinforcement in behavior analysis hinges on stimulus onset versus offset.
- A prior publication by Baron & Galizio (2005) argued this distinction is ambiguous and functionally insignificant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address commentaries from distinguished behavior analysts regarding the proposed ambiguity of positive versus negative reinforcement.
- To re-evaluate the utility and potential confusion arising from the established distinction.
Main Methods:
- Review and response to expert commentaries on the functional significance of reinforcement terminology.
- Analysis of the conceptual and practical implications of distinguishing reinforcement types based on stimulus change.
Main Results:
- Several commentators advocated for retaining the distinction between positive and negative reinforcement.
- The authors remain unconvinced that the benefits of the distinction outweigh its inherent weaknesses and ambiguity.
Conclusions:
- The distinction between positive and negative reinforcement, though deeply ingrained in behavior analysis, offers limited functional significance.
- It is recommended that behavior analysts use these terms with caution, acknowledging the potential for confusion they create.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Reinforcement
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Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulus, increasing the frequency of that behavior. For example:
Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulus, increasing the frequency of that behavior. For example:
01:27Punishment
Negative reinforcement and punishment are often confused but serve distinct functions in behavior modification. Reinforcement, whether positive or negative, increases the likelihood of a desired behavior, while punishment decreases it.
Punishment can be positive or negative. Positive punishment involves adding an undesirable stimulus, such as scolding, to decrease a behavior. Negative punishment involves removing a desirable stimulus, such as taking away a favorite toy, to decrease behavior.
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01:21Operant Conditioning
Operant conditioning, a key concept in behavioral psychology, involves using reinforcement and punishment to alter the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. B.F. introduced this type of conditioning. Skinner focused on voluntary behaviors and the consequences that follow them, influencing whether these behaviors will be strengthened or diminished.
Reinforcement in operant conditioning can be positive or negative, both of which serve to increase the likelihood of a behavior. Positive...
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01:23Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
In psychology, reinforcement is a key concept in behavior modification. B.F. Skinner demonstrated this with his experiments involving rats in what is known as a Skinner box. The rats learned to press a lever to receive food, a primary reinforcer that fulfilled their innate need for nourishment.
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01:08Timing and Consequences on Behavior
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01:24Reinforcement Schedules
Positive reinforcement is a powerful method for teaching new behaviors to both animals and humans. B.F. Skinner demonstrated this with his experiments using rats in a Skinner box. When a rat pressed a lever, it received a food pellet. This immediate reward encouraged the rat to repeat the behavior. This method, where a reward follows every instance of the behavior, is known as continuous reinforcement. It is highly effective for establishing new behaviors quickly.
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