Negative ReinforcementReinforcement is a fundamental concept in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and behavioral psychology. It refers to any consequence that follows a behavior and increases the likelihood that the behavior... More occurs when an aversive stimulusStimulus is defined as any change in the environment or form of energy that affects an organism’s behavior or physiological state. Stimuli can be external or internal, and they can el... More is removed or avoided after a behaviorBehavior refers to any activity or action that living organisms engage in, which can be observed, measured, and analyzed. It encompasses all interactions an organism has with its environment, inc... More, which increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again in the future. Unlike punishment, negative reinforcement strengthens a behavior by eliminating something unpleasant.
Example
A child completes their homework early to avoid being scolded by a parent. The removal of the potential scolding (an aversive stimulus) increases the likelihood that the child will complete their homework early in the future.