Final answer:
In the case of Tommy being bitten by a strange dog, the bite is referred to as the consequence for his action of petting the dog, aligning with the principles of operant conditioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Tommy pets a strange dog and is bitten, the bite serves as a consequence for his behavior of petting the dog. In the context of behavior modification, particularly within the framework of operant conditioning, behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them. Therefore, the correct answer to your question is a) Consequence.
Operant conditioning involves a behavior being followed by either reinforcement or punishment. Reinforcement tends to increase the likelihood of the behavior recurring, while punishment tends to decrease it. In Tommy's scenario, the bite is a form of punishment, as it is an unfavorable outcome that will likely decrease the probability of him petting a strange dog again in the future. Negative punishment involves taking away a desired stimulus, while negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase a behavior, neither of which apply to this situation.