Which of the following is a reason in support of the use of punishment in behavior modification according to psychological theories of emotion?

• A. Punishment can decrease the likelihood of undesirable behaviors by providing immediate consequences.
• B. Punishment always leads to long-term emotional stability.
• C. Punishment eliminates the need for reinforcement in learning.
• D. Punishment is the most effective way to teach new, positive behaviors.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of punishment in behavior modification. Punishment is a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior recurring, according to operant conditioning principles.
2. Step 2: Recognize that punishment provides immediate consequences following an undesirable behavior, which can reduce the frequency of that behavior.
3. Step 3: Note that punishment does not necessarily lead to long-term emotional stability, nor does it eliminate the need for reinforcement; reinforcement is still important for learning.
4. Step 4: Understand that punishment is generally not the most effective way to teach new, positive behaviors; reinforcement of desired behaviors is more effective for that purpose.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the main reason supporting the use of punishment in behavior modification is its ability to decrease undesirable behaviors by providing immediate consequences.