Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

Which of the following describes the two forms of punishment?

1. Positive and negative

2. Active and passive

3. Direct and indirect

4. Physical and verbal

The correct answer is: Positive and negative

The correct answer identifies the two forms of punishment as positive and negative, which are fundamental concepts in behavior analysis. Positive punishment involves the addition of a stimulus following a behavior, which decreases the likelihood of that behavior occurring in the future. For example, if a child touches a hot stove (behavior) and feels pain (added stimulus), they are less likely to touch a stove again. Negative punishment, on the other hand, entails the removal of a stimulus to decrease a behavior. For instance, if a teenager breaks curfew and loses the privilege of going out with friends (removal of a desirable stimulus), they may be less inclined to break curfew in the future. Understanding these two forms of punishment is crucial in applied behavior analysis, as they can effectively modify behaviors when applied appropriately.