What differentiates 'positive punishment' from 'negative punishment' in ABA?

The correct answer highlights that positive punishment involves the addition of an aversive consequence, while negative punishment entails the removal of a positive stimulus. In the context of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive punishment refers to introducing an undesirable outcome or stimulus after a behavior, with the goal of decreasing that behavior's occurrence. For example, if a child touches a hot stove and is subsequently scolded, the scolding serves as a positive punishment aimed at deterring the child from touching the stove again.

On the other hand, negative punishment involves taking away something that is favorable or enjoyable following a behavior, thereby aiming to reduce that behavior. For instance, if a child misbehaves during playtime and loses the privilege of playing with their favorite toy, this removal of the toy serves as a negative punishment.

This distinction is crucial in ABA since understanding the effects of these two types of punishment can aid in effectively modifying behavior and developing interventions.