reward

n. a lay word that is nearly synonymous with reinforcement. Sometimes it is used to describe the intent of someone providing a consequence for behavior, rather than the effectiveness of the consequence (as is required in the definition of reinforcement) in influencing the frequency or probability of occurrence of a particular behavior.

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Psychology term of the day

November 25th 2024

malevolent transformation

the feeling that one lives among enemies and can trust no one. This attitude, purported to be the result of harsh or unfair treatment during childhood, has been posited to be the basis for social withdrawal, hostility, and, in some cases, mental disorder of a persecutory nature. [first described by Harry Stack Sullivan]