positive feedback

In a professional or interpersonal context, this term refers to supportive communication intended to reinforce a specific behavior. It is distinct from constructive criticism, which focuses on areas for improvement, and is typically used to boost morale or validate success.

In technical or scientific contexts, the term describes a self-reinforcing cycle where an initial change triggers a response that further amplifies that change. This is often associated with instability or exponential growth, such as the high-pitched squeal produced when a microphone is placed too close to a speaker.