Final answer:
In operant conditioning, the process where a stimulus increases the likelihood that a behavior will be repeated is called reinforcement. This form of learning modifies a behavior through consequences, using reinforcers to strengthen the behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process in operant conditioning by which a stimulus or event following a particular behavior increases the probability that the behavior will be repeated is known as reinforcement. Operant conditioning is based on the work of B.F. Skinner and involves a form of learning where the motivation for a behavior happens after the behavior is demonstrated. In this context, reinforcement can be positive, by adding a desirable stimulus, or negative, by removing an undesirable one, both with the goal of increasing the likelihood of a behavioral response. Skinner's research suggested that the conditioned behavior is gradually modified by its consequences as the subject responds to the stimulus.
For instance, a dog might learn to sit when commanded if it knows this will result in getting a treat. This kind of associative learning, where a conditioned behavior is modified by its consequences with regards to its form, strength, or frequency, is fundamental to operant conditioning and the concept is widely used in both animal training and various forms of behavioral therapy.