Tamika is learning how to tie her shoes. Her father praises her for crossing the shoelaces. Then, he praises her again as she learns to form one end into a loop. Slowly, Tamika learns how to tie a bow with the laces. This reinforcing of small steps toward a desired behavior is called

A) negative reinforcement.
B) extinction.
C) conditioned response.
D) shaping.

Shaping

A conditioning procedure used in behavioral psychology to establish a new behavior by rewarding closer approximations of the desired behavior.

Desired Behavior

Refers to the specific actions or reactions that an individual or group aims to elicit through various means, including instruction, training, or behavioral modification techniques.

Praises

Expressions of approval or admiration directed towards someone for their achievements or qualities.