What is an example of positive reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement involves encouraging a behavior by introducing a desirable stimulus after the behavior occurs. In the context of the correct answer, providing a child with a toy for sharing effectively reinforces the child's sharing behavior. The reward (the toy) creates a positive association with the act of sharing, making it more likely that the child will continue to engage in that behavior in the future.

This approach highlights how rewarding desired behaviors can promote their repetition, an essential principle in behavioral psychology. By using positive reinforcement, individuals learn that certain behaviors lead to enjoyable outcomes, which strengthens their inclination to repeat those behaviors.