In which process does the likelihood of a behavior decrease because of its unpleasant consequences?

• A. Punishment
• B. Negative reinforcement
• C. Positive reinforcement
• D. Extinction

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key concepts related to behavior modification: reinforcement and punishment.
2. Recall that reinforcement (positive or negative) increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
3. Recognize that punishment is a process where the likelihood of a behavior decreases due to unpleasant consequences following the behavior.
4. Note that extinction involves the reduction of a behavior by removing reinforcement, not by adding unpleasant consequences.
5. Conclude that the process where behavior decreases because of unpleasant consequences is called punishment.