What is meant by positive punishment in behavior modification?

Positive punishment in behavior modification refers specifically to the introduction of an aversive stimulus following a behavior, which leads to a decrease in that behavior's occurrence in the future. The concept is grounded in learning theory, where the goal is to modify behavior through the application of consequences. By adding an unfavorable consequence (an aversive stimulus) immediately after an undesired behavior, it makes that behavior less likely to be repeated. For example, if a student receives extra homework for being late, the additional work serves as a punishment aimed at reducing tardiness.

The other choices describe different mechanisms. For instance, adding a pleasant stimulus is characteristic of positive reinforcement, which is intended to increase behavior. Removing an aversive stimulus aligns with negative reinforcement, which also aims to increase behavior by eliminating something unpleasant. Finally, taking away a pleasant stimulus is indicative of negative punishment, which serves to decrease behavior by removing a positive consequence. Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for effectively applying behavior modification techniques.