Which concept explains that a response is more likely to occur again if it is followed by a positive outcome?

• A. Law of effect
• B. Aversive conditioning
• C. Systematic desensitization
• D. Reinforcement

Answer: (D)

Reinforcement is the idea that a behavior becomes more likely to occur again because it is followed by a consequence that increases its value. When that consequence is positive—adding something desirable—the process is positive reinforcement. For example, giving a treat to a child or a praise after completing a task makes the task more likely to be repeated. This directly explains why the response would recur after a positive outcome.

The law of effect is related, noting that behaviors with satisfying outcomes tend to be repeated, but reinforcement specifies the mechanism by which the effect influences future behavior, with positive reinforcement focusing on the addition of a pleasant consequence. Aversive conditioning and systematic desensitization address different aims: discouraging behavior through unpleasant outcomes or reducing fear via gradual exposure, respectively.