Final answer:
Negative reinforcement increases a behavior by removing an unpleasant stimulus, while negative punishment decreases a behavior by removing a pleasant stimulus. Skinner's work on operant conditioning using the Skinner box has influenced the practice of behavior modification, especially in parenting, where reinforcement is favored over punishment for ethical considerations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening again. For example, taking painkillers to eliminate pain encourages the use of painkillers. Negative punishment, on the other hand, involves the removal of a pleasant stimulus to reduce the occurrence of a behavior, such as taking away a teenager's video game privileges for staying out too late.
Operant conditioning can be applied in parenting by providing consequences for children's actions to influence their behavior. Positive reinforcement encourages good behaviors by offering rewards, while negative reinforcement might involve ignoring attention-seeking behavior to discourage it.
B. F. Skinner's research on operant conditioning greatly influenced behaviorism by demonstrating how consequences shape behavior. He used the Skinner box to study the principles of operant conditioning systematically.
In operant conditioning, the ethical considerations revolve around the potential for harm when using punishment. Experts suggest a preference for reinforcement over punishment to avoid negative consequences and promote positive behavioral changes.