Operant Conditioning Paper

Operant conditioning, a type of learning controlled by the consequences of a person’s behavior, is a system based on rewards and punishments. In devising a weight loss program for my roommate based on the principle of operant conditioning, I will create a program that focuses on reinforcing healthy eating and exercise habits. By doing this, the reinforcement will increase the probability that my roommate will repeat the desired healthy behaviors. Over the course of one-month, by modifying his eating and exercise behavior, my roommate will certainly see weight loss results that will help him make the football team.

In order to help my roommate with his weight loss, I will create a program based on the principles of operant conditioning. First, I will write him a daily, or weekly, exercise plan for him to follow. While the design of this exercise plan is to burn calories and shred fat, it will also help my roommate build muscle and endurance by incorporating both cardio and weight lifting routines. On top of this exercise plan, I will devise a strict …show more content…
Positive reinforcement is the presentation of a stimulus that strengthens the probability of a behavior, whereas negative reinforcement is the removal of a stimulus that strengthens a behavior. So, in order to promote my roommate’s healthy workout and eating behaviors, I will mainly use positive reinforcement. I will positively reinforce his behavior by giving him motivation to stay healthy and provide praise once he finishes a hard workout or shows other signs of healthy behavior. Such healthy behaviors could include healthy eating, drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and rid the body of toxins, getting enough sleep, and taking vitamins. Continuing further with positive reinforcements, I will provide my roommate with rewards that will not counteract his program, such as going to see a movie or an extra thirty minutes of video games a