Which statement about time-out is true?

• A. Time-out is primarily used to increase the frequency of desired behaviors.
• B. Time-out is a behavioral technique used to reduce undesirable behaviors by temporarily removing an individual from a reinforcing environment.
• C. Time-out involves providing positive reinforcement immediately after a misbehavior.
• D. Time-out is only effective when used with adults and not with children.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of time-out in behavioral psychology: it is a technique used to decrease undesirable behaviors by removing access to positive reinforcement for a short period.
2. Recognize that time-out is not intended to increase desired behaviors directly, but rather to reduce unwanted behaviors by temporarily isolating the individual from reinforcing stimuli.
3. Note that time-out does not involve providing positive reinforcement immediately after misbehavior; instead, it involves withholding reinforcement.
4. Acknowledge that time-out can be effective with both children and adults, depending on how it is applied.
5. Conclude that the true statement is that time-out is a behavioral technique used to reduce undesirable behaviors by temporarily removing an individual from a reinforcing environment.