Final answer:
Both positive and negative reinforcement are designed to increase the likelihood of a behavior recurring in the future, therefore the statement is true.
Step-by-step explanation:
Absolutely correct. In the realm of operant conditioning, both positive and negative reinforcement are mechanisms designed to increase the likelihood of a behavior recurring. Positive reinforcement involves adding a favorable stimulus to encourage a behavior, like giving a treat to a dog for sitting. Negative reinforcement, on the other hand, entails removing an unpleasant stimulus to reinforce a behavior, such as relieving pressure on a horse's rein when it turns as desired.
Crucially, both forms of reinforcement share the common goal of strengthening the targeted behavior. They provide motivational cues that enhance the probability of the behavior being repeated in the future. Understanding and applying these principles in operant conditioning is fundamental to shaping and modifying behaviors, whether in the context of animal training or human learning and development.