Comparing positive and negative reinforcement: A fantasy experiment

J Exp Anal Behav. 2017 Jan;107(1):34-38. doi: 10.1002/jeab.237.

Abstract

We propose quantitative experimental approaches to the question of whether positive and negative reinforcement are functionally different, and discuss scientific and ethical concerns that would arise if these approaches were pursued.

Keywords: consequences of aversive stimulation; preference; resistance to change.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Conditioning, Operant
  • Psychology, Experimental* / methods
  • Rats
  • Reinforcement Schedule
  • Reinforcement, Psychology*