Which of the following best describes positive reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement best describes the process of providing a reward to encourage continued behavior. This concept is central to behavior modification and motivational strategies in sports psychology. By offering rewards—whether they are verbal praise, tangible incentives, or other forms of acknowledgment—coaches and athletes can strengthen desired behaviors. For example, when an athlete exhibits a skillful performance and receives praise or a tangible reward, they are likely to feel more motivated to replicate that behavior in the future. This approach not only reinforces the positive behavior but also enhances the athlete's confidence and engagement in their sport.

In this context, the other options do not encapsulate the definition of positive reinforcement. A refers to punishment, which is focused on reducing undesirable behavior rather than encouraging positive actions. C discusses anxiety reduction, which is a different psychological focus not directly related to reinforcement techniques. D involves goal-setting, which can be part of a broader coaching strategy but does not specifically pertain to the reinforcement of desired behaviors. Thus, providing a reward to encourage continued behavior accurately captures the essence of positive reinforcement.