Which term describes adding a stimulus that encourages a behavior to continue?

• A. Negative reinforcement
• B. Positive reinforcement
• C. Extinction
• D. Positive punishment

Answer: (B)

Adding a stimulus to encourage a behavior to continue is reinforcement, specifically positive reinforcement. In operant conditioning, reinforcement strengthens a behavior, and when the added stimulus is desirable or rewarding, it increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again. For example, giving praise or a treat after a task makes the task more likely to be repeated.

Other options don't fit because negative reinforcement also strengthens behavior, but by removing an unpleasant stimulus after the behavior (not by adding something). Extinction occurs when no reinforcement is given, so the behavior fades over time. Positive punishment involves adding something aversive to reduce a behavior.