What does Premack principle state in simple terms?

• A. It requires punishment to enforce behavior.
• B. It uses a more likely activity to reinforce a less likely activity.
• C. It only works with continuous reinforcement.
• D. It cannot be used to teach new behaviors.

Answer: (B)

Premack principle states that a behavior people are more likely to do (a preferred or more frequent activity) can be used to reinforce a behavior they are less likely to do (a less preferred or less frequent activity). In simple terms, you let someone engage in the enjoyable activity after they complete the less desirable one. This is reinforcement, not punishment, and it can work under different reinforcement schedules, not just continuous ones. It also can be used to teach new behaviors by pairing the new task with access to the preferred activity. For example, after finishing a chore, a child earns time to play a favorite game.