13 FAQs of Positive Reinforcement in Psychology

The study of psychology should be followed by a few main domains and an array of subdomains. Positive reinforcement in psychology is also such a subdomain that is used in different setups. Today, we have come up with frequently asked questions and solutions related to this concept.

What is the main concept that discusses positive reinforcement in psychology?

This fundamental knowledge of positive reinforcement comes to the stage with the teachings of behavioural psychology. So, it is a kind of psychological concept that discusses how behaviours decided by certain reinforcements of the peer groups, society or another supportive group of people.

Does it feel difficult to grab the concepts of positive reinforcement?

No! Even though it seems like a difficult concept that needs massive effort to execute, it is not so. Thus, even an ordinary individual can grab the concept very easily after a few hours of follow up. But, it is certain to have some prior knowledge of basic psychological studies.

Does studying positive reinforcement should be followed by a scheduled training?

Yes! It is good to follow a scheduled and planned course content to grab the specific points of this concept. Nowadays, many sources are providing access for further studies about behavioural psychology and positive reinforcement. 

Do we face positive reinforcing events in our daily lives? 

Yes, why not? Often, we all may be subjected to positive reinforcements, with or without our intention. Those are known as natural reinforcements, and any of the parties bound to this scenario may not intentionally promote such incidences. Yet, it will be similar to executing positive reinforcement from the initial step to the endpoint.

What is the definition of positive reinforcement in the Oxford Dictionary?

There are so many definitions of positive reinforcement in psychology to ease off understanding. Similarly, the Oxford Lexico has defined this concept as “The process of encouraging or establishing a pattern of behaviour by offering a reward when the behaviour is exhibited”.

What is the definition of positive reinforcement in operant conditioning?

In the concept called operant conditioning, positive reinforcement defined as the action that can add frequently with the same stimulus to make it a behaviour after a certain period. 

How ordinary teachings define this concept?

In general, positive reinforcement is defined as the teaching or practising the same action for a longer period to make it a habit.

What is operant conditioning, which is closely related to the reinforcement concept?

It is a method of educating that an employee may be worn for punishments or admire for giveaways as with their behaviours.

How positive stimulus will effectively work until it becomes a behaviour?

If the outcomes are favourable to the beneficiary after following the stimulus, the individual will probably repeat the action. Once, the same thing happens again and again it can become a behaviour.

What are the examples of positive reinforcements?

When a child used to help household works, if his mother used to appreciate him with some tasty treat or kind-hearted behaviour, he used to help his mother every day for appreciation. Finally, it can become a behaviour. 

The security officer used to open the gate every morning for his boss for a pleasant smile. So, if the boss offers the expected stimulus every day, the security officer will wait to see his vehicle to receive the appreciation early in the morning. And, it will become a behaviour than a job after a few years.

When staff gets a commission for every successful sale, they will work hard to receive the stimulus (bonuses). So, eventually, the staff will adhere to the wage with a commission. Thus, working hard for a high salary may become a passion of their life. Thus, the company profitability may increase eventually.

Does positive reinforcement always deliver desirable outcomes?

No! It can sometimes deliver undesirable outcomes and can lead to unexpected behaviours too. Thus, positive reinforcement is not always a perfect choice unless it is followed by experienced technical guidance.

How many types of positive reinforcements are there?

The types of positive reinforcements can be varied as with personal definitions on it. However, usually, there are four major types in the discussion. And, the type which is going to execute may differ from the setting, incidence and the involving parties.

What are the types of positive reinforcement?

Tangible reinforcement is the reward directed concept. So, the personal motivation for awards such as gifts, sweets, money or physical appreciation. 

Natural reinforcement is the direct effect of existing behaviour. So, if a person works hard for a settled objective, he will achieve it. Anyways, he may not have the intention of using the behaviour as a reinforcement for the outcome. But, it happens naturally.

The third type is social reinforcement, and it discusses the appreciation received through words by respectable parties such as teachers, employers, peers or parents.

The concept of token reinforcement is again an awarding type of thing. So, the person will work for a token that can be exchanged for any desired giveaway. 

The last bits…

Positive reinforcement in psychology is a behaviour directed concept. And, even though it is suggestive to enhance a desirable behaviour, it will not work at all the time of execution. Thus, the practices of this concept should be followed with the guidance of a trained practitioner.