What is the difference between positive and negative reinforcement?

There are two types of reinforcement - positive and negative. Both work to increase the likelihood of a behaviour happening in the future. Positive reinforcement is where you reward a behaviour with something pleasant i.e. a parent giving their child £5 (reinforcing stimulus) for doing their homework (behaviour). Negative reinforcement is where a negative stimulus is removed once a behaviour is exhibited i.e. making your bed (behaviour) to stop your parent telling you off (negative stimulus).

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Answered by Conor S. Psychology tutor

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