National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

In behavioral therapy, what does "reinforcement" mean?

1. A technique focused on observation

2. A consequence that increases the likelihood of behavior

3. A method of eliciting conditioned responses

4. A stimulus that triggers an unconditioned response

The correct answer is: A consequence that increases the likelihood of behavior

Reinforcement in behavioral therapy refers to a consequence that increases the likelihood of a specific behavior being repeated in the future. This aligns with the principles of operant conditioning, where behaviors are influenced by their consequences. When a behavior is followed by a reinforcing stimulus—something that the individual finds rewarding or desirable—it strengthens the association between the behavior and its positive outcome. As a result, the individual is more likely to repeat that behavior to obtain the same reinforcement in the future. For instance, in a therapeutic setting, if a client engages in a positive behavior, such as attending a support group, and receives praise or a small reward for their attendance, this reinforcement can encourage them to continue participating in such activities. This method is foundational in behavioral therapy, as it helps create and maintain changes in behavior by leveraging the natural consequences of actions. The other choices focus on different aspects of behavioral psychology but do not correctly define reinforcement. Observation pertains to techniques used in behavior analysis, eliciting conditioned responses involves classical conditioning rather than reinforcement, and unconditioned responses relate to innate reactions rather than learned behaviors influenced by consequences.