102 Chapter 7Reinforcement
Reinforcement has occurred if the outcome of a behaviour is rewarding for the ani-
mal, resulting in an increased probability that the behaviour will be repeated
(Lieberman, 1993).
Positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the direct application of reward following a behaviour, effec-
tively increasing the chances that the behaviour will be repeated.
Practical feline examples
● The cat jumps up on the owner’s lap. The owner strokes the cat. The behaviour of
jumping up on the owner’s lap is rewarded by the owner stroking the cat and the
chance that the behaviour will be repeated is increased.
● The cat opens the cupboard door where the treats are kept. The behaviour of
pawing at the cupboard door to open it is self-rewarded by the cat being able
to get to the treats and the chance that the behaviour will be repeated is
increased.
Negative reinforcement
Negative reinforcement is when a behaviour results in relief from an unpleasant expe-
rience, increasing the chances that the behaviour will be repeated.
Practical feline examples
● The cat is outside in the cold and rain. He meows loudly. The owner opens the
door to let the cat in. The behaviour of meowing at the door is rewarded by the
owner opening the door and allowing the cat to get away from the cold and
wet. The chance that the behaviour of meowing at the door to be let in is
increased.
● The cat is being chased by a dog. The cat jumps up and over a high wall. The dog
is unable to follow. The behaviour of jumping over the wall is self-rewarded by
the cat getting away from danger. The chance that the cat will jump over the same
or a similar high wall when feeling threatened is increased.
Training reward or reinforcer
A reward is something beneficial that results from an action. A reinforcer is
something that increases the probability that a behaviour or action will be repeated.
The two are often indistinguishable but it cannot be guaranteed that an intended
reward will act as a reinforcer. To increase the prospect that a reward will also be a
reinforcer it should meet the following criteria: