What term refers to using rewards to encourage desired behaviors or responses?

The term that refers to using rewards to encourage desired behaviors or responses is positive reinforcement. This concept is grounded in behavioral psychology and is a key element in training and modifying behavior in animals, including pets in a veterinary context.

Positive reinforcement involves providing a favorable outcome—such as treats, praise, or playtime—immediately following a desired behavior. This association helps the animal understand that the behavior leads to a positive consequence, making it more likely that they will repeat that behavior in the future.

For example, when a dog sits on command and is rewarded with a treat, that reinforces the sitting behavior. Over time, the dog learns that sitting when asked results in a reward, thus increasing the likelihood of the dog responding properly again in the future.

The other options represent different concepts in behavior modification. Negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus to encourage behavior, which does not use rewards for desired actions. Punishment aims to decrease an unwanted behavior through adverse consequences, while incentive motivation relates to the broader concept of motivation rather than specifically rewarding desired behavior.