Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

Which of the following is not an example of positive reinforcement?

1. Receiving a pay raise

2. Receiving a gift

3. Being denied a desired item

4. Being given a reward

The correct answer is: Being denied a desired item

Positive reinforcement involves giving or increasing a desirable stimulus in order to increase the probability of a behavior being repeated in the future. Option A, receiving a pay raise, is an example of positive reinforcement because it is a desirable stimulus that is given in response to an employee's hard work. Option B, receiving a gift, is also an example of positive reinforcement because it is a desirable stimulus given in response to a behavior, such as a birthday or a job well-done. Option D, being given a reward, is also an example of positive reinforcement as it is a desirable stimulus given in response to a desired behavior. Option C is not an example of positive reinforcement because being denied a desired item is a form of punishment, not reinforcement. In punishment, an aversive stimulus is given or an appetitive stimulus is removed to decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated in the future. Therefore, option C is