Operant Conditioning

What is operant conditioning?

A learning process where voluntary behaviors are modified by the addition of rewards or aversive stimuli.

Who is a key figure in operant learning?

B. F. Skinner.

According to Skinner, what does operant learning emphasize?

The relationship between behavior and rewards or punishments.

Define positive punishment.

A form of punishment aimed at reducing undesirable behavior by presenting an unpleasant stimulus after the behavior occurs.

What is an example of positive punishment?

Giving a light punishment after an undesirable behavior.

Define positive reinforcement.

The addition of a pleasant stimulus after a specific behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Provide an example of positive reinforcement.

Praising a child when they successfully clean their room.

What does negative reinforcement involve?

Increasing the frequency of a behavior by removing or reducing an unpleasant stimulus after the behavior is performed.

Give an example of negative reinforcement.

Reducing study time because the student feels knowledgeable.

What is negative punishment?

A form of punishment aimed at reducing or stopping undesirable behavior by removing a pleasant stimulus.

Provide an example of negative punishment.

Taking away a phone to encourage studying.

What is the difference between reward and positive reinforcement?

A reward is a recognition of positive behavior, while positive reinforcement specifically refers to the addition of a stimulus that increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Who is E. L. Thorndike?

A psychologist known for his contributions to the theory of operant conditioning.