What is an example of negative reinforcement?

Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior in the future. In this case, when a child completes their homework to avoid being scolded, they are engaging in a behavior (doing their homework) to eliminate the negative consequence of potential scolding. This action increases the likelihood that the child will continue to complete their homework in the future to avoid that unpleasant experience.

The other options illustrate different psychological concepts. Receiving a reward for perfect attendance represents positive reinforcement, where a favorable stimulus is added to encourage a behavior. Ignoring a crying baby can be seen as a passive approach not aimed at reinforcing any specific behavior and doesn’t involve removing an unpleasant stimulus in the context of reinforcement. Lastly, giving a treat after a desired behavior is performed also exemplifies positive reinforcement, as it adds a pleasant stimulus in response to the behavior.