Which term describes removing a reinforcer from the learner's current supply of previously earned reinforcers?

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

Answer: (A)

Removing a reinforcer from what the learner has already earned is a negative punishment called a response-cost procedure. When the consequence takes away items from the learner’s current reinforcer stock, it’s described as an existing cache response cost. This directly reduces the immediate value of maintaining the behavior because the learner loses a reinforcer they had in hand, making the behavior less appealing in the future.

Bonus response cost, in contrast, would withdraw from a separate pool or extra “bonus” reinforcer rather than from the learner’s present cache, so it doesn’t target the current stash. Time-in and contingent observation are different approaches entirely: time-in strengthens behavior by providing supportive, reinforcing interaction, and contingent observation involves watching without access to reinforcement, not removing items from a cache.