What happens when a stimulus is classified as a punisher?

When a stimulus is classified as a punisher, it serves to decrease a behavior that occurs before it. This classification is grounded in the principles of behavioral psychology, where punishment is defined as any consequence that reduces the likelihood of a behavior being repeated in the future. For example, if a child touches a hot stove and experiences pain, the pain serves as a punisher that decreases the likelihood of the child touching the stove again.

The effectiveness of punishment depends on the timing and intensity of the stimulus. If implemented correctly, punishment can help to modify behavior by discouraging undesirable actions and promoting safer or more appropriate behaviors in the future. This contrasts with stimuli that increase behavior, such as reinforcers, which function to promote the occurrence of certain actions.