What happens when behavior is consistently followed by a reinforcing consequence?

When behavior is consistently followed by a reinforcing consequence, it tends to increase in frequency. This principle is grounded in the concept of operant conditioning, which suggests that behaviors that are reinforced—meaning they are followed by a pleasant or rewarding consequence—are more likely to be repeated in the future. Reinforcement strengthens the association between the behavior and its outcome, thus making it more probable that the individual will engage in that behavior again.

Positive reinforcement, for instance, involves providing a reward after the desired behavior, while negative reinforcement entails the removal of an unpleasant stimulus when the behavior occurs. Both forms serve to enhance the likelihood that the behavior will recur. Consistent application of these reinforcing consequences leads to a stronger connection and facilitates learning, ultimately resulting in an increase in the frequency of the behavior. This understanding is critical in both behavioral psychology and practical applications such as education and behavior modification strategies.