Capella University - PSY 7708

Positive and Negative Punishment

Basic Foundations of Applied Behavioral Analysis November 28, 2020

Capella University

As behavioral analysts, we look not only to increase positive and socially significant behaviors, but also to decrease problem behaviors. To decrease behaviors within the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) another basic principle of behavior, punishment, is a common method implemented. Unfortunately, the term punishment is generally associated with the negative connotation of something being bad or unpleasant; however, this is not the case.