What is an example of reinforcement highlighted in the context given?

What is an example of reinforcement highlighted in the context given?

• A. A dog barks, the owner ignores it, and barking is eliminated
• B. A dog barks, the owner fills the bowl with food, and barking is weakened
• C. A dog barks, the owner fills the bowl with food, and barking is strengthened
• D. A dog barks, the owner scolds the dog, and barking is eliminated

Answer: (C)

The chosen answer illustrates a clear example of reinforcement in behavioral psychology, specifically positive reinforcement. In this scenario, when the dog barks, the owner responds by filling the bowl with food. This action creates a favorable consequence following the barking behavior, which serves to reinforce that behavior. As a result, the dog is likely to bark more in the future, anticipating a similar reward (food) for that behavior. Positive reinforcement works on the principle that behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated. In this case, the food reward provides an incentive for the dog, strengthening its barking behavior rather than suppressing it. This concept is critical in understanding how reinforcement functions in behavior modification, helping to clarify why this option represents a typical application of reinforcement theory in training contexts.

The chosen answer illustrates a clear example of reinforcement in behavioral psychology, specifically positive reinforcement. In this scenario, when the dog barks, the owner responds by filling the bowl with food. This action creates a favorable consequence following the barking behavior, which serves to reinforce that behavior. As a result, the dog is likely to bark more in the future, anticipating a similar reward (food) for that behavior.

Positive reinforcement works on the principle that behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated. In this case, the food reward provides an incentive for the dog, strengthening its barking behavior rather than suppressing it. This concept is critical in understanding how reinforcement functions in behavior modification, helping to clarify why this option represents a typical application of reinforcement theory in training contexts.