Behaviors with a sensory function are always reinforced via automatic positive reinforcement.

Behaviors with a sensory function are always reinforced via automatic positive reinforcement.

• A. Sometimes
• B. True
• C. False
• D. Cannot be determined

Answer: (C)

Behaviors that have a sensory function are reinforced automatically, meaning the reinforcement comes from the individual's own behavior without social mediation. Importantly, automatic reinforcement can be positive or negative. A behavior might produce a pleasant sensory experience (automatic positive reinforcement) or it might help remove or reduce an unpleasant sensation (automatic negative reinforcement). Because automatic reinforcement is not limited to adding a positive sensation, you can’t say these behaviors are always reinforced positively. For example, some self-stimulatory behaviors provide enjoyable sensory input, while others help alleviate discomfort from sensory overload. That flexibility means the statement is false.

Behaviors that have a sensory function are reinforced automatically, meaning the reinforcement comes from the individual's own behavior without social mediation. Importantly, automatic reinforcement can be positive or negative. A behavior might produce a pleasant sensory experience (automatic positive reinforcement) or it might help remove or reduce an unpleasant sensation (automatic negative reinforcement). Because automatic reinforcement is not limited to adding a positive sensation, you can’t say these behaviors are always reinforced positively. For example, some self-stimulatory behaviors provide enjoyable sensory input, while others help alleviate discomfort from sensory overload. That flexibility means the statement is false.