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  • Overview of Class Objectives
    • Understand different associations between Stimulus (S), Response (R), and Outcome (O).
    • Explore how instrumental conditioning utilizes Pavlovian learning to enhance agency understanding via the Two-process Theory.
    • Investigate the Pavlovian instrumental transfer experiment.
    • Analyze the influence of stimuli and behaviors on instrumental conditioning on learning.
    • Establish Response-Allocation approach foundation.
    • Connect Behavioral Economics principles to learning and behavior.
  • Recall of Classical Conditioning
    • Key concepts:
    • US (Unconditioned Stimulus)
    • CR (Conditioned Response)
    • CS (Conditioned Stimulus)
    • The CS becomes a surrogate US, directly eliciting the CR.
    • Types of Learning:
    • S-R learning (Stimulus-Response)
    • S-S learning (Stimulus-Stimulus)
    • CR is evoked when CS recalls the US, initiating the CR.
  • Thorndike’s Law of Effect
    • Outcomes modify the S-R chain, influencing responses (either strengthening or weakening them).
  • Stimulus-Response Associations
    • Can lead to habit formation.
    • Comparisons made using cocaine-taking behavior among different conditions (valued vs. devalued).
  • Discussion Point
    • Query: Why are there no direct associations with outcomes? Request examples to illustrate points.
  • Potential Associations in Instrumental Conditioning
    • S-R, R-O, S-O connections relevant.
    • Complex interactions: S-(R→O) where outcomes influence responses.
  • Two-Process Theory
    • Integrates classical conditioning into instrumental conditioning.
    • Elements: Skinner box, signal lights, food pellets exemplifying conditioned responses toward outcomes.
    • Assumptions: Stimuli during conditioning become associated with outcomes, activating memories and emotions influencing behavior.
  • Pavlovian Instrumental Transfer
    • Phase 1: Instrumental Conditioning.
    • Phase 2: Pavlovian Conditioning.
    • Test Transfer Prediction to compare responding between different conditions.
  • Discussion Point
    • Illustrate examples of Pavlovian Instrumental Transfer in human behavior.
  • Two-Process Model Observations
    • Clarification that neither S-R nor S-O associations link directly to R-O.
    • Counterintuitive interpretations concerning responses (e.g., combing hair to improve appearance).
  • Hierarchical S-O Relationships
    • Instrumental responses connect with outcomes.
    • Is further stimulus input needed to initiate these responses?
    • Establish the three-term contingency: S(R→O).
  • Avoiding Circular Concepts
    • When defining reinforcers, distinguish between the stimulus and the behavior it strengthens.
  • Premack/Differential Probability Principle
    • Learning drives require analyzing the likelihood difference between instrumental responses and reinforcer responses.
    • Example: Rats prefer eating (high probability) over lever pressing (low probability).
  • Graph Analysis: Premack Principle in Rats
    • Experimental results showcasing preferences between behaviors (e.g., sugar water vs. running).
    • Determine highest probability behavior through experimental design.
  • Graph Analysis: Premack in Humans
    • Use of stereotypical behaviors in children with autism as reinforcement strategies.
  • Discussion Point
    • Consider access influence on operant response based on preference dynamics for sugar or activities.
  • Reinforcer Scarcity & Response-Deprivation Hypothesis
    • Restricting access to reinforcers fuels instrumental conditioning.
    • Animals exhibit preferences leading to effortful behavioral responses to restore levels of desired behavior.
  • Response Allocation Approach
    • Focus shift from traditional conditioning to how organisms allocate behavior freely across multiple activities.
    • Examines constraints introduced by instrumental conditioning, with a long-term goal perspective.
  • Exploration of Behavior Bliss Point
    • Individuals have inherent preferences in behavior distribution when unrestrained (e.g., study vs. social media).
  • Behavioral Constraints in Reinforcement
    • Instrumental conditioning limits behaviors, nudging towards a minimum-deviation point toward preferred actions.
  • Demand Curve Understanding
    • Framework linking price and purchase behaviors, where elasticity affects consumption patterns.
    • Shifting curves reflect sensitivity to price changes.
  • Behavioral Economics Insights
    • Illustrate the relationship between behavior allocation, effort expenditure in operant responses, and demand elasticity.
  • Factors Influencing Demand Elasticity
    • Components include availability of substitutes, price range effects, income level, and access to complementary commodities affecting consumption decisions.
  • Conclusion
    • Understanding associations in instrumental conditioning, classical and instrumental theories together, behavior reinforcement influences, response allocation perspectives, and behavioral economics connections shape learning and behavior understanding.