In the context of ABA therapy, what does positive punishment aim to do?

In the context of ABA therapy, positive punishment is designed to reduce unwanted behaviors. This technique involves the introduction of an aversive stimulus immediately following the occurrence of an undesired behavior, which aims to decrease the likelihood of that behavior happening again in the future. By applying a consequence that the individual finds unfavorable after a particular behavior, the therapist intends to discourage repetition of that behavior. For instance, if a child shouts inappropriately and subsequently faces a consequence they find challenging, such as losing a privilege, this serves to lower the chances of them shouting in the future.

The other options, while relevant to behavioral interventions, focus on increasing positive interactions or skills rather than decreasing unwanted behaviors, which is the primary goal of positive punishment.