Reinforcement
In Plain Language
A consequence makes a behavior more likely to happen again in similar situations.
ABA Definition
A response–consequence relation in which a consequence increases the future probability of that response under similar conditions.
Everyday Example
You ask a neighbor for gardening advice, receive useful help, and ask again more often.
ABA Example
A learner’s requests increase over time when requests reliably produce the requested activity.
How It May Be Used
Identified by an increase in behavior, not by the adult’s intention or by calling something a reward.
Commonly Confused With
A reward is something someone intends to be desirable. Reinforcement is established by its effect on future behavior. “Bribery” is an everyday social label, not a behavioral process.