Which type of reinforcement is achieved through adding a desirable stimulus?

The correct answer is positive reinforcement because it refers to the process of adding a desirable stimulus following a behavior, which increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again in the future. For example, if a teacher praises a student for completing their homework, the praise serves as a positive reinforcement that encourages the student to continue submitting their homework on time.

Positive reinforcement is a fundamental concept in behaviorism, demonstrating how desirable outcomes can shape behavior. It emphasizes the importance of rewarding appropriate behaviors to encourage their repetition, thereby fostering a supportive and motivating learning environment. Understanding this principle is essential for educators, as applying positive reinforcement strategies can lead to improved student engagement and performance.

In contrast, the other options involve different mechanisms that do not align with the definition of adding a desirable stimulus. Negatively reinforcing a behavior entails removing an aversive stimulus rather than adding something good. Aversive reinforcement typically refers to consequences that deter behavior rather than promote it, and conditional reinforcement involves complex conditions rather than simply adding desirable stimuli.