Which type of punishment decreases the future frequency of behavior through an adverse consequence?

The correct answer is positive punishment, as this concept involves the introduction of an adverse consequence following a behavior, which in turn decreases the likelihood that the behavior will occur in the future. Positive punishment works on the principle that by adding an unpleasant outcome—as a result of certain actions—individuals learn to associate that behavior with a negative experience.

For example, if a child touches a hot stove and feels pain, the unpleasant experience (pain) serves as a deterrent, making it less likely that the child will touch the stove again. This principle is foundational in behavior modification strategies across various settings, including parenting, education, and training.

In contrast, negative punishment involves the removal of a pleasant stimulus following an undesirable behavior to reduce its occurrence. Meanwhile, negative reinforcement increases the frequency of a desired behavior by removing an adverse stimulus. Operant conditioning is the broader theoretical framework that encompasses various types of reinforcement and punishment, rather than being a specific type itself.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify how behaviors can be shaped through consequences, thereby influencing future behavior effectively.