What best defines the term "positive reinforcement"?

Positive reinforcement refers to a response or consequence that follows a particular behavior and increases the likelihood that the behavior will occur again in the future. When caregivers or educators provide positive reinforcement, they typically offer praise, rewards, or other forms of acknowledgement after a desired behavior is exhibited by a child. This approach encourages children to repeat the behavior because they associate it with positive outcomes.

For example, when a toddler shares a toy and is met with enthusiastic praise from an adult, the child is more likely to share again in the future, having learned that sharing brings a positive response. This concept is foundational in both educational settings and child development, highlighting the importance of reinforcing desirable behaviors to promote learning and social skills.

The other choices do not align with the definition because they involve either negative consequences or neutral responses that do not encourage behavior repetition.