In the context of operant conditioning, differential reinforcement works by:

• A. Punishing all behaviors equally to reduce their occurrence
• B. Reinforcing every instance of any behavior shown by the subject
• C. Reinforcing a specific behavior while withholding reinforcement for other behaviors
• D. Providing reinforcement randomly, regardless of the behavior displayed

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of operant conditioning, which involves learning through consequences, where behaviors are influenced by reinforcement or punishment.
2. Recognize that differential reinforcement is a technique used to increase a desired behavior by reinforcing it while simultaneously reducing undesired behaviors by withholding reinforcement for them.
3. Identify that punishing all behaviors equally is not differential reinforcement, as it does not distinguish between behaviors.
4. Note that reinforcing every instance of any behavior is not differential reinforcement because it does not target a specific behavior.
5. Conclude that the correct approach in differential reinforcement is to reinforce a specific behavior while withholding reinforcement for other behaviors, thereby shaping behavior effectively.