Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

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What does SP+ represent in terms of punishment?

  1. Positive punishment

  2. Negative punishment

  3. Neutral stimulus

  4. Unconditioned stimulus

The correct answer is: Positive punishment

The notation SP+ signifies positive punishment in the context of applied behavior analysis. Positive punishment involves the introduction of a stimulus following a behavior that decreases the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. In this scenario, the "P" represents punishment, while the "+" indicates that a stimulus is being added to the environment as a consequence of the behavior. For example, if a child touches a hot stove (the behavior) and experiences pain (the added stimulus), that pain serves as positive punishment, making the child less likely to touch the stove again in the future. This principle operates under the idea that the addition of an unfavorable consequence will lead to a reduction of the undesired behavior. In contrast, the other options refer to different concepts within the realm of behavior analysis. Negative punishment refers to the removal of a favorable stimulus, neutral stimulus does not elicit a response, and unconditioned stimulus is typically related to innate reactions that do not require prior learning or conditioning. Understanding the definitions of these terms helps clarify why SP+ is specifically identified as positive punishment.