Positive reinforcement is the addition of a pleasant consequence of a behavior that increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future.

Positive reinforcement can be applied externally by a coach or teacher.

Positive reinforcement can occur intrinsically in the form of:

• Personal satisfaction

• Fun

• Feeling good

• Any positive emotion

Watch this video of TAGteacher Keri Gorman playing on the beach with her horse and dog. Where is the positive reinforcement coming from for… Keri? the horse? the dog?

In the video there are various sources of positive reinforcement.

For Keri:

• Having fun

• The environment of the beach

• Being with her animals

For the horse and the dog:

• Having fun

• Running free

• Keri as the source of clicks, treats and attention

We know that Keri and the animals are receiving positive reinforcement because they repeat the behavior of running on the beach together and they are obviously enjoying themselves.