Which type of consequence immediately follows a behavior to increase its frequency in similar situations?

The correct answer is positive reinforcement because it refers to a process where a desirable consequence is presented immediately after a behavior occurs, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future under similar circumstances. This approach is foundational in operant conditioning, as it leverages rewards or positive outcomes to encourage certain behaviors. For instance, if a student receives praise or a reward for completing their homework on time, they are more likely to repeat that behavior in the future due to the positive reinforcement they experience.

In terms of the other options, negative reinforcement involves the removal of an aversive stimulus to increase behavior, which is different from providing a favorable consequence. Punishment focuses on introducing a negative consequence or removing a positive one to decrease a behavior, which does not align with the goal of increasing behavior frequency. Ignoring a behavior typically results in a decline in that behavior as it lacks any form of reinforcement or acknowledgment.