CFE – Fraud Prevention and Deterrence — Question 49

According to the results of behavioral studies, such as those conducted by В. F. Skinner, application of punishment to undesired behavior typically results in which of the following?

Answer options

• A. No effect on the occurrence of the undesired behavior
• B. Permanent suppression of the undesired behavior
• C. Increase in the occurrence of the undesired behavior
• D. Temporary suppression of the undesired behavior

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because research indicates that punishment often does not effectively reduce the frequency of undesired behavior. Options B and D suggest that punishment leads to lasting or temporary suppression, which is not consistently supported by behavioral studies. Option C is incorrect as punishment does not typically result in an increase of the undesired behavior.