What is the difference between positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement refers to the process by which we are more likely to repeat a behaviour if it results in pleasant consequences. Negative reinforcement on the other hand refers to being more likely to repeat a behaviour if it stops an unpleasant situation, e.g. a baby is given a sweet to stop them crying.

*NOTE negative reinforcment is NOT punishment.

LF
Answered by Lawson F. Psychology tutor

6079 Views

See similar Psychology GCSE tutors

Related Psychology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Aversion therapy is a method used in treating compulsive habits. Indicate two potential compulsive behaviours that can be treated using aversive therapy and highlight the mechanism behind the effectiveness of this therapeutic approach.


How does classical conditioning occur?


What is the difference between the null hypothesis, alternate hypothesis, directional hypothesis and non-directional hypothesis?


What type of studies can be used to assess the extent to which genes can cause psychopathology?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning