In the context of behaviorism, why must replacement behavior strategies include reinforcement procedures?

• A. Because reinforcement increases the likelihood that the new, desired behavior will be repeated.
• B. Because replacement behaviors do not require any consequences to be effective.
• C. Because reinforcement procedures are only used to decrease undesirable behaviors.
• D. Because punishment alone is sufficient to eliminate unwanted behaviors.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic principle of behaviorism, which states that behavior is influenced by its consequences, meaning behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated.
2. Recognize that replacement behavior strategies aim to teach a new, desired behavior to take the place of an unwanted behavior.
3. Identify that reinforcement procedures are used to increase the likelihood that the replacement behavior will occur again by providing a positive consequence immediately after the behavior.
4. Note that without reinforcement, the new behavior may not be strengthened or maintained, making it less likely to replace the unwanted behavior effectively.
5. Understand that punishment alone is not sufficient because it only decreases unwanted behavior but does not teach or encourage a new, appropriate behavior.