Positive reinforcement is when you add something pleasant after a behavior to increase the chances that the behavior will happen again in the future. In other words, it’s rewarding a behavior so the learner is motivated to repeat it.

Imagine a teacher wants students to participate more in class discussions. Every time a student raises their hand and gives an answer, the teacher praises them (“Great point!”) or gives them a participation token. Over time, students are more likely to raise their hands because they’ve learned that doing so results in positive feedback.
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Classroom Examples
1. Spelling Practice:
A student spells a difficult word correctly. The teacher gives them a sticker. The student feels proud and is more likely to try harder next time.
2. Math Achievement:
After completing a set of math problems correctly, a student gets extra computer time as a reward. This motivates them to keep working hard in math.
3. Classroom Behavior:
When students line up quietly, the teacher gives the class a point toward a group reward (like a game at the end of the week). This encourages good group behavior.
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Everyday Life Examples
1. Parenting:
A child cleans their room without being asked, and the parent praises them or gives them ice cream. The child is more likely to clean again.
2. Workplace:
An employee finishes a big project ahead of schedule, and the manager gives them a bonus or recognition in a meeting. This increases the likelihood of similar performance.
3. Personal Habits:
After exercising, someone rewards themselves with their favorite smoothie. This makes them more likely to exercise again.
 

Sources:
• Cherry, K. (2023). What Is Positive Reinforcement? Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-positive-reinforcement-2795412
• McLeod, S. (2023). Skinner – Operant Conditioning. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/operant-conditioning.html