In operant conditioning, what term refers to a consequence that increases the probability of a behavior's recurrence?

• A. Punishment
• B. Classical conditioning
• C. Direct instruction
• D. Reinforcement

Answer: (D)

Reinforcement strengthens a behavior by following it with a consequence that makes the behavior more likely to occur again. This can happen in two main forms: positive reinforcement adds something desirable after the behavior (for example, praise, a token, or extra playtime), and negative reinforcement removes an aversive condition after the behavior (for instance, stopping a loud noise when the student complies). Both approaches increase the chance the behavior will be repeated. In contrast, punishment aims to reduce a behavior, classical conditioning involves pairing stimuli to evoke a response, and direct instruction is a teaching method, not a consequence that strengthens behavior.