Chapter 3 Terms

Chaining

A method to develop a sequence of desired behaviors, where each correct response leads to the next step in the sequence.

Continuous Reinforcement (CRF)

A schedule where a reinforcer follows every correct response made by the individual.

Contrast Effects

Changes in reward value that lead to shifts in response rate; negative contrast (lesser reward) reduces responding, while positive contrast (greater reward) increases it.

Cumulative Recorder

A device that records the cumulative response rate during an instrumental conditioning experiment.

Discriminative Stimuli

Signals indicating when a response-reinforcer relationship is valid, showing presence (S+) or absence (S-) of the relationship.

Escape Training

A process where a negative reinforcer is removed after a response, increasing the response rate.

Fixed Interval (FI) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where the first correct response after a fixed time interval is reinforced.

Fixed Ratio (FR) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement follows after a fixed number of responses.

Law of Effect

A principle stating that responses followed by satisfying effects are strengthened, while those followed by unsatisfying effects are weakened.

Mirror Neuron

A type of cell that responds similarly when performing or observing an action, important for observational learning.

Omission Training

A process where a positive reinforcer is removed after a response, leading to a decrease in response rate.

Operant Chamber

Also known as a Skinner Box, a chamber used to study operant conditioning with mechanisms for animals to produce reinforcers.

Overjustification Effect

The phenomenon where introducing a reward for a previously unrewarded task changes the perception of that task from intrinsic to extrinsic value.

Partial Reinforcement (PRF)

A schedule where the reinforcer follows only some of the responses made.

Post-Reinforcement Pause

A temporary cessation of responding that occurs after reinforcement on a fixed ratio schedule.

Primary Reinforcer

A reinforcer that has intrinsic value, such as food, water, or a mate.

Punishment Training

A process where a negative reinforcer is presented after a response, decreasing the response rate.

Ratio Strain

The phenomenon where increasing the number of required responses for a reward leads to longer post-reinforcement pauses and potential cessation of responding.

Reward Training

A process where a positive reinforcer is presented after a response, increasing the response rate.

Secondary Reinforcer

A reinforcer that can be exchanged for a primary reinforcer, such as money.

Shaping

A technique used to teach complex behaviors by breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps.

Variable Interval (VI) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where the first correct response after a variable time interval is reinforced, characterized by an average time.

Variable Ratio (VR) Schedule

A reinforcement schedule where reinforcement follows after a variable number of responses, characterized by an average number of responses required.