What is meant by positive reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement refers to the addition of a rewarding stimulus following a desired behavior, which increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future. This concept is rooted in behaviorism, especially in the work of B.F. Skinner, who emphasized that reinforcement can shape behavior by providing rewards that strengthen the association between a specific behavior and its positive outcome.

When a specific action is followed by a positive consequence, such as praise, treats, or privileges, it reinforces that behavior. For example, if a child cleans their room and is rewarded with praise from a parent, the child is more likely to clean their room again in the future because they associate the behavior with the positive feedback received. Thus, positive reinforcement is a key mechanism used in various settings, such as education, parenting, and animal training, to encourage desirable behaviors.