Imagine training a puppy. Every time it sits on command, you give it a treat. Soon, it starts sitting automatically when you say “sit.” That treat? It’s reinforcement—a way to encourage behavior by adding a reward or removing something unpleasant.

In psychology, reinforcement is a core idea from operant conditioning (developed by B.F. Skinner). It simply means anything that increases the chance a behavior will happen again.

There are two main types:

1. Positive Reinforcement
   This adds something good after a behavior.
   • Example: You finish a big work project and get a bonus. You’ll likely work hard on the next one too.
   • Modern example: Apps like Duolingo give you gems and cheers for practicing. That “yay” feeling? That’s positive reinforcement.
2. Negative Reinforcement
   This takes away something bad after a behavior.
   • Example: You buckle your seatbelt, and the annoying beeping stops. The relief encourages you to buckle up faster next time.
   • Another 2025 example: Some focus apps block social media until you finish a task—removing distractions, making you more productive.

It’s important not to confuse negative reinforcement with punishment. Reinforcement increases behavior. Punishment decreases it.

Reinforcement is everywhere—schools, workplaces, parenting, even video games. When used right, it can build strong habits, motivate learning, and shape behavior in a positive way.

Whether it’s praise, points, bonuses, or simply turning off a loud alarm, reinforcement works because it taps into how we naturally respond to outcomes.

As we design smarter tools and routines, knowing how reinforcement works helps us build better habits and stay motivated—even on tough days.