Aversive Control: Shaping Behavior Through Consequences
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · August 17, 2026
Medically & Scientifically Reviewed
Verified: August 17, 2026
Review Criteria & Clinical Standards
This content undergoes rigorous scientific peer-review and medical editorial standards at Arab Psychology Network to ensure clinical accuracy, validity, and compliance with evidence-based guidelines from leading psychological and healthcare authorities (APA / WHO).
refers to the use of an aversive outcome, such as punishment or negative reinforcement, to control behavior, and eliminate undesirable behavior.
AVERSIVE CONTROL: “The parent used aversive control on his or her teenager by adding a chore each time another chore was not completed in a timely manner.”