Operant conditioning involves learning the association between a behavior and its consequences. This learning changes future behavior.
Match the operant conditioning concepts with their definitions.
law of effect
Premack principle
primary reinforcer
secondary reinforcer
a stimulus (like money) ?that has become associated with a need or reward (like power) ?and, when presented after a response, increases the likelihood the response will be repeated
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the idea that a more valued activity can be used to reinforce the performance of a less valued activity
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the rule that behavior that leads to a “satisfying state of affairs” ?is likely to occur again, and any behavior that leads to an “annoying state of affairs” ?is less likely to occur again
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a stimulus that satisfies a biological need (like food or sex) ?and, when presented after a response, increases the likelihood the response will be repeated
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Here is the correct matching of the operant conditioning concepts with their definitions:
- Law of Effect
Definition: The rule that behavior that leads to a “satisfying state of affairs” is likely to occur again, and any behavior that leads to an “annoying state of affairs” is less likely to occur again. - Premack Principle
Definition: The idea that a more valued activity can be used to reinforce the performance of a less valued activity. - Primary Reinforcer
Definition: A stimulus that satisfies a biological need (like food or sex) and, when presented after a response, increases the likelihood the response will be repeated. - Secondary Reinforcer
Definition: A stimulus (like money) that has become associated with a need or reward (like power) and, when presented after a response, increases the likelihood the response will be repeated.
Explanation:
Operant conditioning, developed by B.F. Skinner, explains how behaviors are influenced by their consequences. The Law of Effect, introduced by Edward Thorndike, is foundational to operant conditioning. It states that behaviors followed by satisfying outcomes are more likely to recur, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to happen. This principle is the basis for reinforcement and punishment.
The Premack Principle highlights that a preferred activity can serve as a reinforcer for a less preferred activity. For instance, allowing a child to play video games (a preferred activity) after completing homework (a less preferred activity) strengthens the likelihood of homework completion.
Primary reinforcers are inherently reinforcing because they fulfill biological needs. For example, food is a primary reinforcer because it satisfies hunger, a basic physiological drive.
Secondary reinforcers gain their reinforcing power through association with primary reinforcers. Money, for instance, is not inherently valuable but becomes reinforcing because it can be used to purchase primary reinforcers like food or shelter.
Understanding these concepts helps explain how behaviors are learned and maintained, offering insights for applications in education, therapy, and behavioral training.