Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Immediate reinforcement occurs when a reward is given right after a desired behavior is performed.
Related terms
Delayed Reinforcement: This term refers to receiving the reward after some time has passed since performing the desired behavior. For example, getting paid at the end of the month for working hard throughout that period.
This term refers to removing something aversive or unpleasant (e.g., turning off an annoying alarm) after performing a desired behavior in order to increase its occurrence.