Which of the following statements best describes positive reinforcement in the context of theories of emotion?

• A. Removing an unpleasant stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior
• B. Ignoring a behavior so that it eventually disappears over time
• C. Providing a reward after a desired behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior occurring again
• D. Presenting an aversive consequence after an undesired behavior to reduce its occurrence

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of positive reinforcement within behavioral psychology, which involves increasing the likelihood of a behavior by following it with a rewarding stimulus.
2. Step 2: Identify that positive reinforcement is about adding something pleasant or rewarding immediately after a desired behavior occurs.
3. Step 3: Compare the options given: removing an unpleasant stimulus relates to negative reinforcement, ignoring a behavior relates to extinction, and presenting an aversive consequence relates to punishment.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the correct description of positive reinforcement is providing a reward after a desired behavior to increase the chance that the behavior will happen again.
5. Step 5: Conclude that positive reinforcement strengthens behavior by introducing a positive stimulus following the behavior.