Question

While treating a patient for caries the dentist switched from air rotor to spoon excavatorThis is an example of:

• A. Desensitisation
• B. Omission
• C. Negative reinforcement
• D. Positive reinforcement

Hint:

Negative reinforcement = Removal of unpleasant stimulus to encourage desired behaviorNot punishment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Reinforcement.
In behavioral psychology, reinforcement increases the likelihood of a desired behaviorNegative reinforcement involves removal of an unpleasant stimulus to encourage cooperation
Step 2: Analyzing the Clinical Situation.
The air rotor is noisy and may cause discomfort or anxietySwitching to a spoon excavator removes the unpleasant stimulus (noise/vibration)When the patient cooperates, the dentist removes the distressing stimulus
Step 3: Differentiating from Other Options.
(A) Desensitisation involves gradual exposure to reduce fear
(B) Omission refers to withdrawing a pleasant stimulus
(C) Negative reinforcement removes an unpleasant stimulus to strengthen behavior
(D) Positive reinforcement adds a reward to encourage behavior
Step 4: Conclusion.
Since the unpleasant stimulus (air rotor) is removed to improve patient cooperation, this is Negative reinforcement