What are the two main types of reinforcement?

The two main types of reinforcement are positive and negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement involves presenting a stimulus after a desired behavior is exhibited, which increases the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. For example, if a student receives praise or a reward for completing their homework, they are more likely to continue doing their homework in the future.

Negative reinforcement, on the other hand, involves the removal of an aversive stimulus upon the exhibition of a desired behavior, which also increases the likelihood of that behavior recurring. For instance, if a teenager can avoid doing chores by completing their homework, the removal of the chore requirement after the desired behavior reinforces the homework completion.

Each type of reinforcement plays a crucial role in shaping behavior, leading to effective learning and behavioral modification strategies.