In the reinforcement process, which type of consequence tends to increase the likelihood of a behavior?

Positive reinforcement is the process where a desirable consequence follows a behavior, which in turn increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future. When an individual receives a reward for a specific action—such as praise, an increase in pay, or any positive outcome—they are more inclined to repeat that action because they associate it with a favorable result. This principle is grounded in behavioral psychology, emphasizing that behaviors can be encouraged through positive feedback or rewards.

In contrast, negative reinforcement involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus following a behavior, which can also increase the likelihood of that behavior, but it operates differently from positive reinforcement. Neutral reinforcement does not affect the likelihood of a behavior and punitive measures, rather than encouraging the repetition of behaviors, are intended to discourage actions by introducing unpleasant consequences. Thus, positive reinforcement aligns best with the aim of boosting desired behaviors effectively.