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In English / College | 2025-07-05

Use the appropriate abbreviations to identify each example. The squirrel runs up a tree to escape a predator.

PR = Positive reinforcement
NR = Negative reinforcement
PP = Positive punishment
NP = Negative punishment

Asked by kaylaadam03040811

Answer (2)

The squirrel running up a tree to escape a predator is an example of negative reinforcement, where the unpleasant stimulus (the predator) is removed to promote the behavior of climbing. This behavior helps ensure the squirrel's survival by reducing danger. Thus, the correct abbreviation is NR.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-06

When considering behavioral responses in animals, such as a squirrel running up a tree to escape a predator, it is important to understand the type of response observed according to concepts in psychology and behavioral biology.
In this scenario, the squirrel runs up a tree to avoid or escape a predator. The key detail here is that the behavior (running up a tree) allows the squirrel to avoid something unpleasant (the predator).
Here's how the concepts apply:

Positive Reinforcement (PR): This involves presenting a pleasant stimulus after a behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior happening again. For example, giving a treat to a dog after it sits on command.

Negative Reinforcement (NR): This involves removing an unpleasant stimulus when a behavior occurs to increase the likelihood of that behavior happening again. In this scenario, the unpleasant stimulus is the predator, and by escaping up the tree, the unpleasant situation is avoided. Therefore, the squirrel’s action of running up the tree is reinforced by the predator's absence.

Positive Punishment (PP): This involves presenting an unpleasant stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. For example, scolding a dog when it barks at strangers.

Negative Punishment (NP): This involves removing a pleasant stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. For example, taking away a favorite toy when a child misbehaves.


Therefore, the behavior of the squirrel escaping up a tree from a predator is best categorized as Negative Reinforcement (NR) because the squirrel's action helps it avoid a negative outcome, reinforcing the escape behavior in future similar situations.

Answered by SophiaElizab | 2025-07-07

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