Richard Reinforcement

Reinforcement, in psychology, refers to a process where behaviors are influenced by their consequences. When a behavior is followed by a positive outcome or reward, it's more likely to be repeated in the future—this is called positive reinforcement. Conversely, if a behavior leads to an unpleasant outcome, it's less likely to happen again, known as negative reinforcement. Reinforcement strengthens or encourages specific behaviors by adjusting the environment or responses, helping individuals learn what actions are desirable or effective. This concept is fundamental in shaping habits, learning, and behavior modification across various settings.