Baron and Galizio (2005) reviewed and updated Michael's (1975) observations concerning the problems surrounding the distinction between positive and negative reinforcement. In the end they concluded that the valence is unjustified. However, despite the fact that the logical and empirical underpinnings of the distinction have been questioned for more than 30 years, it has persisted. In this article, the authors point out some of the underpinnings of the distinction, some further practical reasons for its persistence, and how the inconsistencies between what is known about the distinction and how it is described in both professional and lay settings might be addressed.