Operant Conditioning and Behavior: Skinner, Reinforcement, and Applications

Who is considered the leading behaviorist after Watson?

B.F. Skinner

What device did Skinner create to study behavior scientifically?

Operant chamber (Skinner Box)

How does reinforcement shape behavior according to Skinner?

Reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

What is one application of operant conditioning in schools?

Teachers shape behavior by reinforcing correct answers.

How do online learning systems utilize operant conditioning?

They provide immediate feedback to strengthen learning.

What role does reinforcement play in the workplace?

It increases productivity through bonuses, praise, and incentives.

How do parents use operant conditioning at home?

By strengthening desired behaviors with attention and rewards.

What is instinctive drift in operant conditioning?

Conditioned behaviors may revert to instinctive patterns over time.

What is latent learning?

Learning that occurs without reinforcement and becomes clear only when needed.

What is intrinsic motivation?

The desire to perform a behavior for its own sake.

What is extrinsic motivation?

Behaviors performed to gain rewards or avoid punishment.

How does classical conditioning differ from operant conditioning?

Classical conditioning involves learning through association of stimuli, while operant conditioning involves learning through consequences.

What is observational learning?

Learning by watching others and imitating their behaviors.

What are mirror neurons?

Neurons that fire when an individual observes someone else performing an action, facilitating imitation.

What is a prosocial effect of observational learning?

Modeling positive behavior increases the likelihood of similar behavior in children.

What are antisocial effects of observational learning?

Observing aggression can increase aggressive behavior in individuals.

What is the significance of Skinner's work in psychology?

He demonstrated how reinforcement and punishment shape voluntary behavior.

What limits biological constraints impose on operant conditioning?

Animals can only learn behaviors that are natural and evolutionarily adaptive.

What is the overjustification effect?

Excessive rewards can reduce intrinsic motivation for a behavior.

How can operant conditioning be applied in self-improvement?

By setting goals, monitoring progress, and rewarding oneself for achievements.

What is the role of cognition in operant conditioning?

Cognitive processes influence learning and expectations about rewards.

What is the main focus of operant conditioning?

How consequences shape voluntary behavior.