Light

Punishments

Definition

Punishments are outcomes that decrease the likelihood of a behavior reoccurring in the future. They can be either adding something unpleasant following an unwanted behavior (positive punishment) or taking away something pleasant after an unwanted behavior (negative punishment).

Related terms

Negative Reinforcement: This involves removing an unpleasant stimulus after a certain behaviour is exhibited – making that behaviour more likely to occur again in future.

Positive Reinforcement: It's when an encouraging result follows desired behaviour making it more likely for this behaviour to happen again.

Aversive Stimulus: An aversive stimulus is something unpleasant that 'encourages' individuals to avoid it. It's often used in punishments.

"Punishments" appears in:

Study guides (1)

AP Psychology - 4.4 Social and Cognitive Factors in Learning

Practice Questions (5)

In terms of motivation theories, which one emphasizes external rewards and punishments?
Which psychological theory would suggest that substance addiction is learned through reinforcements and punishments?
Which approach suggests the use of rewards or punishments to modify behavior?
Which theory emphasizes that attitudes are formed and can be changed through the process of learning, rewards, and punishments?
In terms of attitude formation and change, what type of learning occurs when an individual's behavior is shaped by rewards or punishments?

Are you a college student?

Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab

About Us

About Fiveable

Blog

Careers

Code of Conduct

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

Merch Shop

Crisis Text Line

Help Center

Stay Connected

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.