Which term describes strengthening a behavior through its consequences?

• A. Reinforcement
• B. Relapse
• C. Recovery coach
• D. Recovery residence

Answer: (A)

Reinforcement is the process of strengthening a behavior by presenting a consequence that follows the behavior, or by removing an unpleasant condition. In operant conditioning, reinforcement increases the likelihood that the behavior will happen again. This can be positive reinforcement, where a pleasant result is added after the desired behavior (like praise or a small reward), or negative reinforcement, where an aversive condition is removed when the behavior occurs (such as reducing stress by achieving a goal). In substance use disorder treatment, reinforcement helps cement abstinent or healthy behaviors by pairing them with rewarding outcomes, making them more likely to recur.

Relapse is a return to substance use after a period of abstinence. A recovery coach is a professional who supports someone’s recovery, and a recovery residence is a housing program that provides structure for ongoing recovery. These terms describe different aspects of recovery, not the process by which behavior is strengthened through its consequences.