Consequent events refer to the outcomes, or events that follow from the Behavior of interest.
In psychology, consequent events refer to the outcomes or consequences of a particular behavior or action. These outcomes can be positive or negative and can influence the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future. Here are some examples of consequent events:
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Positive reinforcement: When a behavior is followed by a positive consequence, such as a reward or praise, it is more likely to be repeated in the future. For example, a child who receives a piece of candy for completing their homework is more likely to complete their homework in the future.
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Negative reinforcement: When a behavior is followed by the removal of a negative consequence, such as the cessation of an unpleasant task, it is more likely to be repeated in the future. For example, a student who is allowed to skip a difficult assignment after completing an easier one is more likely to complete the easier assignment in the future.
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Punishment: When a behavior is followed by a negative consequence, such as a scolding or a time-out, it is less likely to be repeated in the future. For example, a child who is scolded for hitting their sibling is less likely to hit their sibling in the future.
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Extinction: When a behavior is no longer followed by a previously received consequence, it is less likely to be repeated in the future. For example, a dog who no longer receives treats for performing a trick may stop performing that trick.
Overall, consequent events play a crucial role in shaping behavior and can help to reinforce desired behaviors while reducing undesirable ones.