Positive Reinforcement
Also called: SR+, reinforcement
Definition
A contingency in which a stimulus is presented immediately following a response, and the future frequency of that response increases as a result. Whether a stimulus functions as a reinforcer is determined by its effect on behavior, not by assumption or by the learner's stated preference.
In plain language
Something is added right after a behavior, and the person does that behavior more often from then on. Positive here means something was added. It does not mean nice.
Examples
A learner points at a cup, is handed water, and begins pointing at the cup far more often across the day.
Water was delivered after pointing and pointing increased.
A staff member gets a laugh after telling a joke in a team meeting and tells more jokes in later meetings.
Not positive reinforcement
A learner is given a sticker they do not care about, and the behavior it followed stays at the same rate. A planned reward that does not change behavior is not a reinforcer.
Praise is delivered ten minutes after the behavior and nothing changes. Delay can break the contingency entirely.
Commonly confused with
See also
Written from
- baer-wolf-risley-1968
Written from the standard operant framework. No textbook glossary consulted or paraphrased.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.