Operant Conditioning and Learning

These flashcards cover key concepts related to operant conditioning and instrumental learning as discussed in the lecture.

Operant Learning

A form of learning where a response is followed by a stimulus, known as a consequence, which modifies the probability of that response.

Reinforcement

A consequence that increases the likelihood that a response occurs again.

Punishment

A consequence that decreases the probability of a response occurring again.

Shaping

The gradual molding of a behavior towards a desired behavior through reinforcement of successive approximations.

Primary Reinforcer

Biological reinforcers such as food, water, and shelter that fulfill a basic need.

Secondary Reinforcer

Reinforcers that have acquired meaning through association with primary reinforcers, like money.

Positive Reinforcement

The presentation of a good stimulus following a behavior, which increases the probability of that behavior.

Negative Reinforcement

The removal of an aversive stimulus following a behavior, which increases the probability of that behavior.

Positive Punishment

The presentation of an aversive stimulus following a behavior, which decreases the probability of that behavior.

Negative Punishment

The removal of a pleasant stimulus following a behavior, which decreases the probability of that behavior.

Premack Principle

A high-frequency behavior can be used as a reinforcer for a low-frequency behavior.

Extinction

The process by which a previously reinforced behavior is no longer reinforced, leading to a decrease in that behavior.

Spontaneous Recovery

The return of a previously extinguished behavior after a pause.

Fixed Ratio Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where a reward is given after a fixed number of responses.