What term describes behavior that is maintained by the sensory input caused by the behavior itself?

• A. Self-stimulation function
• B. Automatic reinforcement
• C. Tangible reinforcement
• D. Social reinforcement

Answer: (A)

When a behavior continues because the sensory feedback it creates is rewarding in itself, the reinforcement comes from within the person, not from another person or from an object. This intrinsic, self-generated reinforcement is described by self-stimulation function. In this pattern, the behavior is maintained by the sensory input produced by the behavior itself, which is a form of automatic reinforcement.

An example would be a movement pattern that provides visual or tactile input the person finds reinforcing, so the movement persists even without attention or tangible rewards. This distinguishes it from tangible reinforcement (which would involve a reward like a toy), or social reinforcement (praise or attention from others).