When attempting to modify a child's behavior using negative reinforcement, the desired result is that the child will:
A. withdraw from certain social activities.
B. not argue with adults.
C. repeat behavior for which they get the desired results.
D. avoid behaviors that carry undesirable consequences.
To determine the answer to this question, we need to understand what negative reinforcement is and how it affects behavior.
Negative reinforcement refers to the removal or avoidance of an undesirable stimulus or consequence in order to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In other words, it involves rewarding a behavior by removing something negative or aversive from the child's environment.
With that in mind, we can analyze the options:
A. "Withdraw from certain social activities" does not align with the concept of negative reinforcement. Negative reinforcement aims to encourage desired behavior, not to isolate the child socially.
B. "Not argue with adults" might be desirable, but it doesn't specifically explain how negative reinforcement can achieve that. Negative reinforcement focuses more on reinforcing specific behaviors rather than general compliance or defiance.
C. "Repeat behavior for which they get the desired results" is a possible outcome of negative reinforcement. When a child experiences relief or the removal of an aversive stimulus by engaging in a particular behavior, they are likely to repeat that behavior to achieve the desired result.
D. "Avoid behaviors that carry undesirable consequences" is the most accurate choice. Negative reinforcement encourages a child to avoid or stop engaging in behaviors that lead to negative consequences, thus reinforcing desired behavior.
Therefore, the most appropriate answer to this question is D. The desired result when using negative reinforcement is for the child to avoid behaviors that carry undesirable consequences.