Mom and Dad think it is real funny, and laugh when their 2-year-old, Bruce, says dirty words. When Bruce is sent home from kindergarten because of swearing, they don't understand why he cusses. Now when he cusses at home they ignore the cussing (they don't think it's cute anymore) . Laughing in this example is:

A) positive reinforcer.
B) a negative reinforcer.
C) a primary reinforcer.
D) a neutral stimulus.

Positive Reinforcer

A stimulus which, when presented after a behavior, increases the probability of that behavior being repeated.

Laughing

The action of making spontaneous sounds and movements of the face and body that are the instinctive expressions of lively amusement and sometimes also of contempt or derision.

Cussing

The act of using swear words or profanity in speech or writing, often used to express strong emotions or for emphasis.