Which option best describes negative reinforcement?

Negative reinforcement is a concept rooted in behavioral psychology, aiming to increase the likelihood of a specific behavior through the removal of an aversive stimulus. When a particular behavior results in the cessation or avoidance of something undesirable, it tends to strengthen that behavior over time. For example, if a student studies hard to avoid the anxiety of failing an exam, the act of reducing that anxiety encourages more studying in the future.

Thus, the response emphasizes the removal of an unpleasant aspect rather than the introduction of a new or favorable element. This understanding distinguishes negative reinforcement from other behavioral strategies. Adding a desired stimulus, imposing unpleasant stimuli, or providing rewards for compliance do not capture the essence of negative reinforcement, which specifically involves alleviating discomfort as a motivational tool.