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. Further confusion comes from the fact that negative reinforcement often involves escaping or removing the threat of punishment or obtaining relief from something else unpleasant, like anxiety or anger or guilt. Not going to the dentist is a way of avoiding fears. Much mysterious human behavior is the result of negative reinforcement.