Behaviourism: Operant Conditioning

Question 1

Operant conditioning

Answer 1

Learning through consequences

Question 2

Positive Reinforcement

Answer 2

A behaviour is more likely to reoccur because of a positive consequence.

Question 3

Negative Reinforcement

Answer 3

A behaviour is more likely o reoccur to avoid negative consequences

Question 4

Punishment

Answer 4

A behaviour is less likely to reoccur because of negative consequences.

Question 5

Types of reinforcement?

Answer 5

5

Question 6

Continuous Reinforcement (CRF)

Answer 6

Every single response is reinforced

Question 7

Fixed Interval (FI)

Answer 7

Reinforcement given every fixed time period if the response has occurred at least once.

Question 8

Variable Interval (VI)

Answer 8

Reinforcement is given but it varies so interval is unpredictable. ( e.g. every 30 seconds ).

Question 9

Fixed Ratio (FR)

Answer 9

A reinforcement is given for a fixed number of responses.

Question 10

Variable Ratio (VR)

Answer 10

A reinforcement is given on average but number varies. E.G. gambling

Question 11

Advantages

Answer 11

Scientific Credibility - measurement of observable behaviour, objectivity & replicability, highly controlled lab settings.
Real Life Application : Operant-token economy. Classical- treat phobias

Question 12

Disadvantages

Answer 12

Mechanistic View Of Behaviour
- Deterministic- no control over behaviour
Use of animals- exposed to stressful and aversive conditions. Argued not appropriate due to diffs in complexity of human & animal behaviour.