Behaviorism and Conditioning Principles

Flashcards summarizing key concepts of behaviorism, classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement, punishment, and related psychological theories.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired together, leading to a conditioned response.

Operant Conditioning

A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior.

Reinforcement

Any consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated in the future.

Positive Reinforcement

Adding a favorable outcome or reward after a desired behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior.

Negative Reinforcement

Removing an unfavorable outcome or aversive stimulus to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior.

Punishment

Any process that decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

Positive Punishment

Administering an unfavorable outcome or event following an undesired behavior.

Negative Punishment

Removing a favorable outcome or event after an undesired behavior.

Skinner Box

An experimental apparatus used to study animal behavior in operant conditioning.

Functional Analysis

A method for analyzing the antecedents and consequences of behavior to understand behavior patterns.

Self-Efficacy

An individual's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations.

Reciprocal Determinism

The theory that a person's behavior is influenced by personal factors, behaviors, and the environment.

Cognitive-Affective Personality System (CAPS)

Walter Mischel's theory that suggests personality is shaped by cognitive and affective variables influenced by situational factors.