What is the term for the removal of a specific amount of an already earned reinforcer after a behavior?

The term "response cost" specifically refers to the procedure where a certain amount of a previously earned reinforcer is removed following a particular behavior. This concept is commonly used within the realm of behavior modification and applied behavior analysis. The intent behind implementing a response cost is typically to decrease the likelihood of the undesired behavior occurring again in the future by introducing a consequence that removes something of value to the individual.

For instance, if a child has earned tokens for good behavior and then exhibits a behavior that is deemed inappropriate, a certain number of those tokens might be deducted as a consequence. The removal of the tokens serves as a form of punishment, thereby aiming to reduce the frequency of the undesirable behavior.

The other options presented do not accurately capture this concept:

• Reinforcer deduction is not a formally recognized term within behavioral terminology.

• Behavioral fine suggests a punitive measure but does not specifically relate to the loss of previously earned reinforcement.

• Reward penalty, while it may imply some form of consequence, lacks the precise definition associated with the removal of earned reinforcers.

By focusing on the removal aspect after the behavior and linking it to previously earned items, "response cost" is the most accurate term to describe this phenomenon.