Multiple choice

Which of the following best describes punishment?

  1. Addition of a positive event

  2. Addition of an aversive event

  3. Declining frequency of response

  4. Withdrawal of a negative event

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Punishment is defined as the addition of an aversive event following a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring again. This is positive punishment - 'positive' meaning adding something, and 'punishment' meaning to reduce behavior. Option A describes positive reinforcement, while Option D describes negative reinforcement (removing something negative to increase behavior). Option C describes the effect of punishment, not its definition.