Question

negative reinforcement _ a target behavior; negative punishment __ a target behavior
○ increases; decreases
○ decreases; decreases
○ increases; increases
○ decreases; increases
when teaching a new behavior, the most effective reinforcement schedule is ___, because it helps to make a clear connection between the behavior and consequence.
○ fixed interval
○ variable ratio
○ continuous
○ variable interval

Explanation:

• For the first question: Negative reinforcement increases a target behavior by removing an aversive stimulus when the behavior occurs. Negative punishment decreases a target behavior by removing a pleasant stimulus when the behavior occurs.
• For the second question: Continuous reinforcement (reinforcing the behavior every time it occurs) is most effective when teaching a new behavior as it clearly links the behavior and its consequence. Fixed - interval (reinforcing after a set time), variable - ratio (reinforcing after a variable number of behaviors), and variable - interval (reinforcing after a variable time) are more effective for maintaining behavior rather than initially teaching it.

Answer:

• First question: A. Increases; decreases
• Second question: Continuous