Direct Reinforcement in AP Psychology

Definition

Direct reinforcement refers to the process of providing a reward or punishment directly after a behavior, which can increase or decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. It is a form of operant conditioning.

Related terms

Positive Reinforcement:

Positive reinforcement involves adding something desirable (like giving a treat) to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening again.

Negative Reinforcement:

Negative reinforcement involves removing something unpleasant (like taking away an annoying sound) to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening again.

Punishment:

Punishment involves applying an aversive consequence (like scolding or giving detention) to decrease the likelihood of a behavior happening again.