Learning Quadrants

As we explained with the ABCs there are 4 possible consequences to every behavior. These are the 4 learning quadrants.

• If the behavior WORKS for the horse it will be “reinforced” and be more likely to happen in similar situations

• If a behavior DOESN’T WORK for the horse it will be “punished” and be less likely to happen in similar situations

Remember in science “positive” means “adding” and “negative” means “subtracting”

1. Positive Reinforcement - Something liked is added so the behavior is more likely to happen

2. Negative Reinforcement - Something disliked is removed so the behavior is more likely to happen

3. Negative Punishment - Something liked is removed so the behavior is less likely to happen

4. Positive Punishment - Something disliked is added so the behavior is less likely to happen