A consequence is defined by Skinner as a reinforcer or a punisher depending on whether it
A. increases or decreases the frequency of the behavior that it follows.
B. is designed to promote desirable behavior or suppress undesirable behavior.
C. is pleasurable or uncomfortable for the subject receiving the consequence.
D. occurs antecedent to or as a consequence of the behavior.
Answer:A
A consequence is defined by Skinner as a reinforcer or a punisher depending on whether it
A. increases or decreases the frequency of the behavior that it follows. B. is designed to promote desirable behavior or suppress undesirable behavior. C. is pleasurable or uncomfortable for the subject receiving the consequence. D. occurs antecedent to or as a consequence of the behavior.
Explanation: A) According to Skinner, whether a stimulus is a reinforcer or a punisher depends on whether the stimulus increases or decreases the behavior that it follows. If the consequence increases the behavior that it follows, it is a reinforcer. If the consequence decreases or suppresses the behavior, the consequence is a punishment.