In one study, 84 percent of those given a free sample of a chocolate while in a candy
store made a purchase, whereas only 59 percent of those not provided a sample made a purchase. Thus, shaping can be very effective. Illustration 9–3 shows an ad designed to induce trial, the first step in shaping.
While reinforcement increases the likelihood of behavior such as a purchase being
repeated, a negative consequence (punishment) has exactly the opposite effect. Thus, the purchase of a brand that does not function properly greatly reduces the chances of future purchases of that brand. This underscores the critical importance of consistent product quality.