Which term refers to applying a punishing consequence immediately after a behavior to reduce its occurrence?

• A. Punishment
• B. Negative reinforcement
• C. Extinction
• D. Reinforcement schedule

Answer: (A)

Punishment refers to delivering a punishing consequence immediately after a behavior to reduce its occurrence. By presenting an aversive consequence right after the behavior, the individual learns to avoid that action in the future, lowering how often it happens. This is different from negative reinforcement, which increases a behavior by removing an aversive stimulus, and from extinction, which reduces a behavior by withholding reinforcement altogether. A reinforcement schedule describes how often reinforcement is given, not the type of consequence that reduces behavior. The immediacy of the consequence helps strengthen the connection between the behavior and the outcome, making the decrease in occurrence more likely.