Positive and negative reinforcement are distinguished only by the nature of the consequence that follows the behaviour. Positive reinforcement occurs when the occurrence of a behaviour is then followed by the addition of a pleasurable stimulus (reinforcer) or an increase in the intensity of a pleasurable stimulus which results in the strengthening of the behaviour.Negative reinforcement, by contrast, occurs when the occurrence of a behaviour is then followed by the removal of an aversive stimulus or a decrease in the intensity of an aversive stimulus which results in the strengthening of the behaviour. In positive reinforcement, the stimulus that is presented or that appears after the behaviour is called a positive reinforcer and can include things such as praise, good grades and stars.
This is illustrated in the early childhood experiences of Serena and Venus where they are reinforced for playing good tennis by the praise their father whenever they hit the ball well. In negative reinforcement however, the stimulus that is removed or avoided is called an aversive stimulus. The essential difference therefore, is that in positive reinforcement, a response produces a stimulus (a positive reinforcer), whereas in negative reinforcement, a response removes or prevents the occurrence of a stimulus (an aversive stimulus).In both cases, the behaviour is more likely to occur in the future. As Skinner discussed, positive reinforcement is superior to punishment in altering behaviour. He maintained that punishment was not simply the opposite of positive reinforcement; positive reinforcement (such as chocolate) results in lasting behavioral modification, whereas punishment only temporarily changes behavior and presents many detrimental side effects.
Skinner also posited that the use of punishment is not effective at altering behaviour in order to bring about the desirable response, but just teaches persons how to avoid punishment. Therapists have shown that both positive and negative reinforcement can be effective tools for treating depression and anxiety. For example, by introducing proper stress management tactics, such as breathing exercises, the patient quickly learns that painful symptoms such as stomach ache, headache and a full-on panic attack can be avoided.The removal of the unwanted symptoms is an obvious example of negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement can also be used to the benefit of the patient.
An example related to depression is when the therapist attempts to reinforce the power of positive thinking onto the individual. When the individual has a more positive attitude, makes an effort to smile more or takes time to list things they like about themselves, they are rewarded with improved happiness.The desire to improve this happiness eventually causes the individual to adopt a positive attitude in an effort to maintain and improve this positive feeling. It should be noted that reinforcement can also reinforce detrimental actions associated to anxiety and depression. For example, family members of a depressed individual may try to make them feel better by cooking and cleaning for them.
This may teach the individual to remain sedentary and depressed in order to get rewarded with less housework.
