I have been talking about Reinforcement.  Let’s look more specifically at Positive Reinforcement. Positive Reinforcement focuses on rewarding behaviors that are preferred so the behavior will increase in frequency in the future.  The child or adult experiences something pleasant after a behavior, skill practice, or language structure/use.  At times you might be rewarding something that comes naturally to the person, such as asking for help.  “I like the way you asked me for help.  I know what you were thinking.”  Individuals can experience different types of positive reinforcement.  Natural reinforcers happen because of a person’s direct behaviors, such as a good grade following studying.  Token reinforcers occur when a person receives a reward for doing something specific.  Social reinforcers reflect another’s approval of the individual’s behavior, such as a therapist saying, “good work.” Tangible reinforcers are something the individual receives such as payment or a treat.  Essentially, the individual experiences something favorable following a behavior or action, so that the behavior or action will likely re-occur in the future.  A reinforcer is added to the interaction.  Examples of positive reinforcement are clapping, smiling, agreeing, tokens, treat, payment, salary, toys, stickers, and high-fives. 

References:

https://positivepsychology.com/positive-reinforcement-psychology/#what-is-the-meaning-of-positive-reinforcement

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-positive-reinforcement-2795412