Psych #12

Reinforcement discrimination

The ability to distinguish between stimuli and respond differently based on whether reinforcement is present.

Reinforcement generalization

The tendency to respond similarly to different stimuli that are associated with the same reinforcement.

Shaping

Gradually reinforcing behaviors that increasingly resemble the desired behavior.

Instinctive drift

A tendency for animals to revert to innate behaviors instead of learned behaviors.

Superstitious behavior

Behaviors that are accidentally reinforced, leading to false beliefs about cause and effect.

Learned helplessness

The belief that one has no control over outcomes due to repeated exposure to uncontrollable events.

Reinforcement schedules

Patterns that determine when and how often reinforcement is delivered.

Continuous reinforcement

Reinforcing a behavior every time it occurs.

Partial reinforcement

Reinforcing a behavior only some of the times it occurs.

Fixed interval

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement is given after a set amount of time.

Variable interval

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement is given after varying amounts of time.

Fixed ratio

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

Variable ratio

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement is given after an unpredictable number of responses.

Social learning theory

A learning approach that emphasizes learning through observation, imitation, and modeling.

Vicarious conditioning

Learning by observing the consequences of others’ behavior.

Insight learning

Solving a problem through sudden understanding rather than trial and error.

Latent learning

Learning that occurs without reinforcement and is not immediately demonstrated.

Cognitive maps

Mental representations of spatial layouts used for navigation.

Developmental psychology

The scientific study of changes in behavior and mental processes across the lifespan.

Stability and change

The debate over whether traits remain consistent or change throughout life.