Positive reinforcement increases responding; negative reinforcement…

Positive reinforcement increases responding; negative reinforcement…

Options:

(a) Increases; decreases

(b) Decreases; increases

(c) Increases; increases

(d) Decreases; decreases

✅ Correct Option: (a) Increases; decreases

Explanation:

In behavioral psychology, positive reinforcement strengthens a behavior by presenting a rewarding stimulus after the desired response, thereby increasing the rate of responding. For example, praising a student for completing homework encourages repetition. Conversely, negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus when the desired behavior occurs. Although it can strengthen behavior in some contexts, excessive or improper use may decrease motivation or create avoidance behavior. Understanding reinforcement principles is essential for classroom management and effective teaching. PPSC often tests this in educational psychology or teaching methodology sections.

10 Related PPSC Facts:

Positive reinforcement strengthens behavior Negative reinforcement removes aversive stimuli Key principle of behavioral psychology Influences classroom behavior Encourages learning Can be applied in teaching strategies Enhances student motivation Supports active learning Core concept in pedagogy Frequently asked in PPSC