Use both parts of the definition
To classify the learning example, first identify the target response and the consequence that follows it. Then ask what happens to the future occurrence of that response. Adding a stimulus with a subsequent increase is positive reinforcement; removing a stimulus with a subsequent increase is negative reinforcement. The label depends on the stated relation, not on whether an adult intended to reward, whether the stimulus seems pleasant to an observer, or whether the response is socially desirable.
Compare two original examples
In one fictional program, an approved brief game follows an independent request, and independent requests subsequently increase. The example describes adding access and an increase, so it illustrates positive reinforcement. In a second example, an approved break follows an appropriate break request, and those requests increase. The removal of the task demand and subsequent increase illustrate negative reinforcement. These are classification exercises with supplied outcomes, not instructions for choosing or changing a real person’s intervention.
Separate a schedule from its outcome
A schedule specifies when a consequence is arranged. A ratio schedule depends on responses; an interval schedule includes time and a qualifying response. Fixed and variable describe how that requirement is arranged. Follow the written schedule rather than giving a consequence whenever it is convenient. An item can be delivered exactly as planned without the desired behavior increasing; report the actual data rather than redefining delivery itself as proof of reinforcement.
Check the common confusions
Negative reinforcement is often mistaken for punishment because everyday language treats “negative” as bad. Test the future-behavior direction instead. Also distinguish a preferred item from a demonstrated reinforcer: choosing a game is different evidence from an increase in a response that produces it. For a transfer, a response decreases after a stimulus is added. That supplied outcome does not describe reinforcement. Identify the decrease and added stimulus, then consult the assigned lesson on consequence classifications rather than relying on the stimulus’s name.
After independent requests, a learner receives a token; independent requests increase. Which process is shown?
- Apply the relevant C.1 distinction: Reinforcement is defined by an increase in future responding; positive adds a consequence and negative removes one.
- A token is added after responding and responding increases.
- The response is interpreted within the stated observation conditions and RBT role; do not add an unsupported universal conclusion.
Compare the other answer choices
The choice 'Negative reinforcement' does not follow the specified observation or approved procedure. A token is added after responding and responding increases.
The choice 'Positive punishment' does not follow the specified observation or approved procedure. A token is added after responding and responding increases.
The choice 'Negative punishment' does not follow the specified observation or approved procedure. A token is added after responding and responding increases.
Try it, then explain it.
Complete a short set without looking at the example. After each answer, explain which evidence or rule supports your decision and why the alternatives do not fit.
Sources & authorship
Original Slope explanations and examples. References support the concepts; they are not the source of copied questions. Independent educator review is pending.
RBT Test Content Outline3rd editionRegistered Behavior Technician official overview