Involves removing a specific amount of reinforcers from the individual’s current supply of previously earned reinforcers.

• A. Bonus response cost
• B. Existing cache response cost
• C. Time-in
• D. Contingent observation

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that a form of punishment known as response cost involves taking away reinforcers that have already been earned, to reduce the future occurrence of a behavior. The scenario describes removing a specific amount from what the person already has in their reinforcer stock, their current cache. That exact mechanism—depleting the incentives that have already been accumulated—fits the existing cache response cost.

Why this fits better than the other terms: a bonus response cost would involve an additional or augmented cost beyond the standard amount, not specifically tapping into the person’s current reinforcer stash as described. Time-in describes a nonexclusionary period during which reinforcement access is restricted, rather than taking away already earned reinforcers. Contingent observation is a punishment where the person is observed or kept in view, without necessarily removing reinforcers from their possession. So the description aligns with removing from the existing reinforcer stock.