Review Question - QID 108913

A 7-year-old patient is brought in by his mother for a routine check-up for school. The child is cooperative throughout the visit and excitedly talks about school. The mother congratulates her son on his behavior, and mentions that when he was being treated for leukemia three years ago, he would start crying in the parking lot even before they arrived at the clinic because he was afraid of the blood draws. The mother notes that since his remission, he has been better tolerating physician visits as he does not need routine bloodwork. She has occasionally been giving him candy before clinic visits to reward his good behavior after she noticed he stopped crying. Since getting these rewards, the patient has sometimes remarked that he enjoys visiting the clinic now. Which of the following best explains why this patient no longer cries at physician visits?