Question

To keep from getting mosquito bites when he mows the lawn, Kevin always sprays himself with insect repellent before he starts mowing. Using operant conditioning terms,this is an example of:

A) positive reinforcement.
B) negative reinforcement by avoidance.
C) extinction.
D) negative reinforcement by escape.

Answer 1

B) negative reinforcement by avoidance

Step-by-step explanation:

In his theory of operant conditioning, B F Skinner has used negative reinforcement. In negative reinforcement, the behavior or response is enforced by removing, avoiding or stopping a negative outcome. Aversive simulus tends to create discomfort in person's physical or psychological being. Here Kevin tries to avoid by using negative reinforcement.