Psychology Behaviorism

Fixed Ratio Schedule

Reinforcement is given after a specific number of responses are complete

Variable Ratio Schedule

Reinforcement is given after random numbers of responses are completed

Fixed Interval Schedule

Reinforcement is given after a specific amount of time has passed

Variable Interval Schedule

Reinforcement is given after random amounts of time has passed

B.F. Skinner

Pioneer of behaviorism, Skinner believed that behavior is shaped by reinforcement and punishment. He developed the operant conditioning theory, where behavior is modified through consequences.

Positive Reinforcement

A process of increasing the likelihood of a behavior by adding a desirable stimulus after the behavior. It strengthens the behavior by providing a positive consequence, such as praise, rewards, or privileges.

Negative Reinforcement

A process in which the removal of an aversive stimulus increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated in the future.

Positive Punishment

Type of operant conditioning where an unpleasant stimulus is added to decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated in the future.

Negative Punishment

The removal of a desirable stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future.

Reinforcement vs. Punishment

Reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior, while punishment decreases it.

Law of Effect

The principle that states behavior followed by positive consequences is likely to be repeated, while behavior followed by negative consequences is less likely to be repeated.

Classical Conditioning

Type of learning where a neutral stimulus is paired with a stimulus that naturally elicits a response to create a learned response

Operant Conditioning

Type of learning where behavior is modified by consequences (reinforcement or punishment)

How are habits formed?

Habits are formed through a three-step loop: cue, routine, and reward. The cue triggers the habit, the routine is the behavior itself, and the reward is the positive outcome that reinforces the habit. Repetition is key to forming a habit.

Dopamine Reward Pathway

A neural pathway in the brain that involves the release of dopamine in response to rewarding stimuli, such as food or drugs. This pathway is involved in motivation, reinforcement, and addiction.

Addiction

A chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences.

Withdrawal

A group of physical and mental symptoms that occur when an individual abruptly stops taking a drug or medication that their body has become dependent on. Symptoms can include nausea, sweating, anxiety, depression, and tremors.

Brain Plasticity

The brain's ability to change and adapt in response to experiences and learning. It allows for the formation of new neural connections and the rewiring of existing ones.

How do drugs and alcohol interfere with neural transmission?

"Substances like drugs and alcohol disrupt the normal communication between neurons in the brain. They can interfere with the release, reception, and reuptake of neurotransmitters, leading to altered brain function and behavior."

Why is the teenage brain, in particular, susceptible?

"Adolescent brain's prefrontal cortex still developing, leading to impulsive behavior and poor decision-making. Hormonal changes also affect emotions and risk-taking behavior."

Social Media Addiction

A behavioral addiction characterized by excessive use of social media platforms, resulting in negative impacts on mental health, personal relationships, and productivity.

Triggers

Events or situations that can cause a person to experience strong emotions or engage in certain behaviors. They can be internal, such as thoughts or memories, or external, such as people or places. Identifying and managing triggers can be an important part of managing mental health conditions such as anxiety or PTSD.

Downward Social Comparison

Comparing ourselves to someone else who lacks in an area that we excel in

Correlation with Mental Health

Poor mental health is a risk factor for chronic physical conditions