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.