What term describes the addition of a stimulus following a response that increases the likelihood of that response in the future?

The correct term for the addition of a stimulus following a response that increases the likelihood of that response occurring again in the future is positive reinforcement. This concept is a fundamental principle in behavior analysis.

Positive reinforcement occurs when a desirable stimulus is presented after a behavior, which strengthens or increases the probability of that behavior being repeated. For example, if a child receives praise (the added stimulus) for completing their homework, they are more likely to complete homework in the future to receive more praise.

Understanding positive reinforcement is essential because it helps practitioners shape and maintain desired behaviors by utilizing effective strategies that include rewards or reinforcements. This approach is key in teaching and modifying behavior in various settings, such as educational and therapeutic environments.

The other terms presented do not describe this specific process of increasing behavior through the addition of a stimulus. Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an aversive stimulus to increase behavior, while a conditioned response refers to a learned reaction to a conditioned stimulus. Aversive stimuli typically refer to unpleasant stimuli that may decrease behavior when applied. Thus, the specificity and positive nature of positive reinforcement distinguish it as the correct answer in this context.