Which function is described as the removal or termination of aversive stimuli following a behavior?

• A. Escape Function
• B. Attention Function
• C. Access Function
• D. Automatic Reinforcement

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that behavior is strengthened when it ends something unpleasant. When a behavior leads to the removal or termination of an aversive stimulus, that outcome serves as negative reinforcement, making the behavior more likely to occur again in similar situations. This specific function is described as an escape function.

For example, if a student completes a task and the teacher immediately stops the difficult activity, the student learns that behaving in that way helps escape the aversive demand, which reinforces the behavior. The other functions involve different reinforcers: gaining social attention, obtaining access to preferred items or activities, or reinforcement from the behavior’s own sensory effects.