Operant Conditioning describes the ability to learn to make an operant or instrumental response (Gray & Bjorklund, 2014). A behavior or action that an individual does which has an effect on the environment is an operant response. Theses voluntary, active behaviors allows subjects to learn through consequence which, influences the effect on future behavior (Miltenberger, 2012). Because operant conditioning is controlled by the consequence of the behaviors, behavior analyst must try to understand the cause for the behavior to be able to manipulate it such that the consequence of the behavior can be …show more content…
Using a three-term contingency, an example of this negative reinforcement would be illustrated as such: Teenager forgets an assignment and is concerned of the consequences (SD). The avoidant behavior is, teen lies to teacher and the teacher gives an extension. The consequences is that every time the student forgets an assignment they will continue to lie in order to receive an extension. In both lying and procrastination the consequences, the behavior is more likely to reoccur.
Alcoholism is a reinforced behavior but alcoholism is an escape behavior. Compared to an avoidance behavior. An escape behavior results in the termination of the aversive stimuli present when the behavior occurs (Miltenberger, 2012). An example for a three-term contingency for alcoholism would begin with, Partner feels guilty after an argument (SD). The behavior results in partner drink all night and eventually forgetting about the argument and the guilt. The consequence is, anytime an argument arises where there is guilt, the partner will drink to terminate the feeling of guilt.
5) Explain how positive and negative reinforcement are similar and different. Do the same for positive and negative