In behaviorism, what is the outcome of positive reinforcement?

In behaviorism, positive reinforcement refers to the process where a desirable stimulus is presented following a specific behavior, which increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future. This is based on the principles established by B.F. Skinner and other behaviorists who studied operant conditioning.

When a behavior is followed by a positive outcome or reward, individuals are more inclined to repeat that behavior. For example, if a student receives praise for completing their homework, they are more likely to continue working on homework in the future due to the positive reinforcement of commendation. This is why the strengthening of desired behavior is the correct choice, as it emphasizes the beneficial impact of positive reinforcement on reinforcing specific behaviors.

The other options reflect misinterpretations of the effects of positive reinforcement—for instance, weakening or eliminating behavior contradicts the concept of reinforcement, while creation of aversive responses describes punishment rather than reinforcement. Thus, the strengthening of desired behavior accurately captures the intent and effect of positive reinforcement within behaviorist theory.