Advertisement
Health Topics/Mental Health

What are examples of behavioral reinforcement?

Sheri D. Pruitt
Sheri D. Pruitt
Psychology
Behavioral reinforcement (the principle that rewarded behaviors are more likely to be repeated) can take a variety of forms. All kinds of treats -- money, candy, verbal praise, applause, or gold stars on a monitoring chart -- can increase your chance of repeating a desired behavior. What works best? That's the tricky part, and it's an individual thing. What might be a powerful treat for one person might not be for someone else.

Here are some broad categories:
  • Monetary rewards (cash)
  • Non-monetary gifts (clothes, music CDs)
  • Social rewards (praise from friends and family)
  • Activity rewards (going out to a movie or getting a manicure)
  • Physiological rewards (pleasant sights, sounds, tastes, and smells)
  • Psychological rewards (feelings of happiness, contentment, and satisfaction)
Living SMART: Five Essential Skills to Change Your Health Habits Forever

More About this Book

Living SMART: Five Essential Skills to Change Your Health Habits Forever
The myriad of books and programs that encourage people to stop smoking, get organized, spend less, or exercise more tend to focus on what or why to change, but rarely explain how to change. Living...

Continue Learning about Mental Health

Avoid Loneliness and Cultivate Personal Relationships
Avoid Loneliness and Cultivate Personal Relationships
In Alan Sillitoe’s 1962 classic British film, The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, a reform school student (Tom Courtenay) makes a name for him...
Read More
What are types of self-injury?
Deborah Serani, PsyDDeborah Serani, PsyD
Types of self-injury can include: - cutting - burning - picking at skin - interfering with wound ...
More Answers
4 Simple Ways to Avoid Feeling Lonely
4 Simple Ways to Avoid Feeling Lonely4 Simple Ways to Avoid Feeling Lonely4 Simple Ways to Avoid Feeling Lonely4 Simple Ways to Avoid Feeling Lonely
Loneliness and isolation can have serious health effects—but being proactive goes a long way.
Start Slideshow
Dr. Mona Lisa Schulz - What would you say to other practicing doctors who write off intuition?
Dr. Mona Lisa Schulz - What would you say to other practicing doctors who write off intuition?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.