Which type of behavior is likely to diminish through punishment?

Punishment is a method used in behavior modification to decrease the likelihood of an undesirable behavior recurring in the future. When punishment is applied consistently and appropriately, it serves to create an aversive consequence for a behavior that is deemed unacceptable. As a result, the individual receiving the punishment is less likely to engage in that behavior again because they associate it with negative outcomes.

In this context, the type of behavior that is likely to diminish through punishment is indeed undesirable behavior. By targeting behaviors that are problematic or harmful, punishment aims to reduce their frequency and encourage individuals to adopt more appropriate behaviors in their place.

In contrast, reinforcing desired behavior, rewarding behaviors with favorable consequences, or ignoring certain behaviors would not lead to a reduction in the undesirable behaviors; instead, these approaches can promote different outcomes, such as an increase in positive behavior or a lack of change in the target behavior.