Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) Practice Test

What does the Premack Principle state regarding behavior reinforcement?

1. High-probability behavior can reinforce low-probability behavior

2. Low-probability behavior can reinforce high-probability behavior

3. Reinforcement is unrelated to behavior frequency

4. All behaviors are equally reinforcing

The correct answer is: High-probability behavior can reinforce low-probability behavior

The Premack Principle posits that more probable or frequent behaviors can serve to reinforce less probable or infrequent behaviors. This means that if a person has a strong preference for a certain activity, that activity can be used as a reward to reinforce behaviors that the individual may not be as inclined to engage in. For instance, if a child enjoys playing video games (a high-probability behavior), allowing them to play video games after they complete their homework (a low-probability behavior) can encourage them to do their homework. This principle highlights the idea that the value of reinforcement comes from the likelihood of the behavior occurring, thereby establishing a dynamic where one behavior can effectively promote another.