Within the framework of operant conditioning, spanking a child would be considered _____ punishment.Multiple choice question.positivenegative

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the concept of operant conditioning.
2. Understand the definitions of positive and negative punishment.

Relevant Concepts

1. Operant Conditioning: This is a learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.
2. Positive Punishment: This involves adding an unpleasant stimulus to reduce a behavior (e.g., spanking a child).
3. Negative Punishment: This involves removing a pleasant stimulus to reduce a behavior.

Analysis and Detail

1. The act of spanking introduces an unpleasant experience for the child, intended to discourage undesired behavior.
2. In this case, the behavior of spanking qualifies as positive punishment because it adds an unpleasant consequence (the spanking) to reduce the behavior.

Verify and Summarize

Given that spanking introduces an aversive stimulus to try to decrease unwanted behavior, it fits the criteria of positive punishment and not negative punishment.

Final Answer

Spanking a child would be considered positive punishment.