ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

What does negative reinforcement do in the context of behavior modification?

1. Increases a behavior by adding a stimulus

2. Decreases a behavior by removing a stimulus

3. Increases a behavior by removing a stimulus

4. Decreases a behavior through punishment

The correct answer is: Increases a behavior by removing a stimulus

Negative reinforcement plays a crucial role in behavior modification by increasing the likelihood of a behavior by removing an undesirable stimulus. In this context, when a specific behavior is followed by the removal of an aversive situation or stimulus, it strengthens that behavior, making it more probable that the individual will engage in the behavior again in the future. For instance, if a student studies hard to avoid the stress of poor grades, the act of studying is reinforced by the removal of the anxiety associated with academic failure. This exemplifies how negative reinforcement promotes positive behaviors by alleviating negative conditions, effectively encouraging individuals to repeat behaviors that lead to favorable outcomes. The other choices suggest concepts that do not align with the mechanics of negative reinforcement; increasing or decreasing behaviors through punishment or the addition of stimuli do not accurately represent the process by which negative reinforcement functions. Negative reinforcement is specifically about enhancing behaviors through the removal of unpleasant circumstances rather than by introducing new elements or reducing behaviors.