Homework: Positive and Negative Punishment
During this unit, we explore another basic principle of behavior-punishment. Punishment decreases behavior. Many misconceptions about punishment exist, but when used correctly, it is an important part of the learning process. Punishment is a consequence that follows a behavior and decreases the future likelihood of that behavior occurring again. Decreasing problem behaviors is a common task for behavior analysts, so it is important to understand how punishment works.
For this homework, complete the following:
o Define both positive and negative punishment. Be sure to explain how they are similar and how they are different in your definitions.
o Provide two real-world, detailed examples of how positive punishment could be used to decrease behaviors you would like to see occur less often. Also, provide two real-world, detailed examples of how negative punishment could be used to decrease behaviors you would like to see occur less often. For example, a parent may use negative punishment by removing television privileges when his or her child curses. Another parent may use positive punishment by requiring the child to write the sentence "I will use nice words." 100 times after cursing.
o Be sure to explain why the examples you chose illustrate that procedure.
Format your homework according to the following formatting requirements:
o The answer should be typed, using Times New Roman font (size 12), double spaced, with one-inch margins on all sides.
o The response also includes a cover page containing the title of the homework, the student's name, the course title, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required page length.
o Also include a reference page. The Citations and references must follow APA format. The reference page is not included in the required page length.