what is withdrawing or withholding reinforcement
http://www.jstor.org/pss/1127426
Withdrawing or withholding reinforcement refers to a behavior modification technique where previously available reinforcements (rewards) are no longer given following a behavior. This can serve as a way to decrease the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future.
To understand this concept further, it is important to comprehend the basic principles of operant conditioning. Operant conditioning suggests that behavior is influenced by consequences. Reinforcement is one such consequence that strengthens or increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
Withdrawing reinforcement involves removing certain rewards or positive consequences that were previously provided when a particular behavior was exhibited. This reduction in positive reinforcement can lead to a decrease in the frequency or likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future.
Here's an example to illustrate this concept: Let's say a child throws a tantrum in a grocery store to get a candy bar. If the parent always gives in and provides the candy bar, it reinforces the tantrum behavior and encourages the child to repeat it in the future. However, if the parent decides to withhold reinforcing the tantrum by not giving the candy bar, the child may eventually learn that tantrums are not effective in getting what they want and may decrease or stop displaying that behavior.
Overall, withdrawing or withholding reinforcement can be an effective strategy to modify behavior by decreasing or eliminating the rewards associated with certain behaviors, thereby reducing their recurrence.