After passing his chemistry exam, Tito was told by his parents that he would be able to have access to the family car for a week. Tito's parents are using

• A. behavior modification.
• B. shaping
• C. higher-order conditioning.
• D. positive reinforcement.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key components of the scenario: Tito passed his chemistry exam, and as a result, his parents allowed him access to the family car for a week.
2. Understand the concept of positive reinforcement: It involves adding a rewarding stimulus after a desired behavior is performed, which increases the likelihood of the behavior being repeated.
3. Analyze the scenario: Tito's behavior (passing the exam) is followed by a positive consequence (access to the car), which is intended to encourage him to continue performing well in his studies.
4. Differentiate between the options: Behavior modification is a broad term that includes various techniques, shaping involves reinforcing successive approximations of a target behavior, and higher-order conditioning involves pairing a new neutral stimulus with a conditioned stimulus.
5. Conclude that the scenario is an example of positive reinforcement, as the reward (car access) is contingent upon the desired behavior (passing the exam), thereby reinforcing it.