University of Central Florida (UCF) SPA3472 Behavioral Methods in Communication Disorders Practice Exam

Positive reinforcement is the correct response as it involves the presentation of a favorable stimulus after a desired behavior, which increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again in the future. For example, if a child receives praise or a reward for completing homework, this positive experience encourages them to repeat the behavior.

The concept of positive reinforcement is fundamental in behavioral psychology, as it not only reinforces a behavior but also maintains motivation. This type of reinforcement is commonly applied in various settings, including education and therapy, to promote desired behaviors.

In contrast, negative reinforcement involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus as a consequence of a behavior, which can also increase the frequency of that behavior but does not involve the addition of a positive stimulus. Additive reinforcement is not a standard term within behavioral methods, and punishment actually works to decrease the likelihood of a behavior by introducing a negative consequence or removing a positive one. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effectively applying behavioral methods in communication disorders.