Negative reinforcement is a psychological technique that encourages a desired behavior by removing an unpleasant outcome:
Definition
Negative reinforcement is a behavioral study technique that strengthens a desired behavior by removing an unwanted outcome.
Goal
The goal of negative reinforcement is to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior.
How it works
Negative reinforcement involves taking away something unpleasant in response to a stimulus.
When it's most effective
Negative reinforcement is most effective when it happens immediately after a behavior.
Examples
Some examples of negative reinforcement include:
A parent serving warm milk to a toddler who whines
A parent allowing a toddler to stop using diapers after they use the toilet
A parent reducing other chores for a teen who keeps their room clean
Using an asthma inhaler to terminate an asthma attack
Using a seatbelt to stop a loud buzzing sound
Negative reinforcement is different from punishment, which aims to discourage a specific behavior