The rejected person can love again, the workaholic can relax, the greedy can be generous. But only if they think about changing. We discussed this under operant conditioning. It involves taking away or escaping an unpleasant stimulus or situation. This escape is, of course, pleasant and reinforcing, i.e. it strengthens the behavior immediately preceding the escape of something unpleasant.
Negative reinforcement is an important key to understanding human behavior.
Any behavior that reduces an unpleasant feeling or threat is reinforced. Sadness may be lessened by drinking, smoking pot, making up with someone, or visiting friends. Annoying behavior may be stopped by threats, violence, giving in, requesting they stop, or leaving the situation. Many people confuse negative reinforcement with punishment. Punishment usually reduces the chances the behavior will re-occur.