Reinforcement Schedules and Learning Behavior

These flashcards cover key concepts related to reinforcement schedules, learning behaviors, and various behavior modification techniques discussed in the lecture.

Reinforcement Schedule

A method of delivering reinforcement that maintains behavior without needing to be delivered after every instance of that behavior.

Partial Reinforcement

Reinforcing a behavior less than every single occurrence.

Fixed Ratio (FR) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement is provided after a set number of responses.

Variable Ratio (VR) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses, leading to high and steady rates of behavior.

Fixed Interval (FI) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where the first response is rewarded after a specified amount of time has passed.

Variable Interval (VI) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where the reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable amount of time, promoting slow and steady responding.

Discriminative Stimulus

A stimulus that provides a cue for a specific response to occur, indicating when a behavior will be reinforced.

Stimulus Control

When a response is influenced by the presence or absence of a discriminative stimulus.

Programmed Instruction

A teaching method based on principles of operant conditioning, involving small bits of information and practice to ensure mastery before moving on.

Aversion Therapy

A behavior modification technique that uses punishment to reduce unwanted behaviors, such as alcohol dependence.

Systematic Desensitization

A therapeutic technique to gradually expose a person to a feared stimulus while in a relaxed state to reduce fear.

Behavior Modification

Utilizing techniques from operant conditioning to change or improve behaviors, often in therapeutic settings.

Cognitive Mapping

A mental representation of spatial relationships, demonstrated in studies where rats navigate mazes without reinforcement.

Observational Learning

A form of learning that occurs by watching others, where individuals can imitate behaviors they have observed.