Question

A reinforcer is anything that ___________ ; a punisher is anything that ___________. a. makes a behavior less likely; makes a behavior more likely b. makes a behavior more likely; makes a behavior less likely c. is positive; is negative d. is shaped; is extinguished

Short answer

b. makes a behavior more likely; makes a behavior less likely

Step-by-step solution

Define Key Concepts

Review the definitions of 'reinforcer' and 'punisher'. A reinforcer is anything that increases the likelihood of a behavior, while a punisher decreases the likelihood of a behavior.

Review Answer Choices

Carefully read through the answer options to see which align with the definitions provided in the previous step: a. makes a behavior less likely; makes a behavior more likely. b. makes a behavior more likely; makes a behavior less likely. c. is positive; is negative. d. is shaped; is extinguished.

Match Definitions to Answer Choices

Match the definitions to the correct answer choice: - A reinforcer increases the probability of a behavior, which matches 'makes a behavior more likely'. - A punisher decreases the probability of a behavior, which matches 'makes a behavior less likely'.

Select the Best Answer

Based on the matching from the previous step, option b ('makes a behavior more likely; makes a behavior less likely') correctly describes the functions of a reinforcer and a punisher.

Key concepts

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is a fundamental concept in operant conditioning, which is a learning process where behavior is shaped by its consequences. It is a tool used to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior. Reinforcement can be positive or negative, but both serve the purpose of strengthening behavior.

• Positive Reinforcement: This involves adding a pleasant stimulus to encourage a behavior. For example, giving a child a treat for completing their homework increases the chances they will do it again.
• Negative Reinforcement: This involves removing an unpleasant stimulus to encourage behavior. For instance, if wearing a seatbelt turns off a car's annoying alarm, you're more likely to buckle up quickly in the future.

These types of reinforcement make a behavior more likely to occur again. It's important to identify suitable reinforcers that truly motivate the individual, as not all reinforcers will be effective for everyone.

Punishment

Punishment is used to decrease the likelihood of an undesired behavior in operant conditioning. Unlike reinforcement, which aims to increase behavior, punishment is about reducing or eliminating it. Punishment can also be either positive or negative.

• Positive Punishment: This adds an unpleasant stimulus in response to a behavior. An example might be getting a speeding ticket, which discourages speeding.
• Negative Punishment: This involves taking away a pleasant stimulus. For example, losing phone privileges due to poor grades can reduce the chances of poor academic performance in the future.

Effective punishment should be immediate and proportionate. It's crucial to combine punishment with guidance towards the desired behavior to teach what should be done instead.

Behavior Modification

Behavior modification is the application of operant conditioning principles to change behavior. It involves systematically applying reinforcement and punishment to encourage desirable habits and discourage unwanted ones.

• Identify Behavior: The first step is to clearly define the behavior to be increased or decreased. This precision ensures targeted interventions.
• Select Reinforcers and Punishers: Choose appropriate tools that will effectively shape behavior. Tailoring these to the individual's preferences and responses is vital.
• Implement and Monitor: Consistently apply reinforcers and punishers while monitoring changes in behavior. Record keeping can help track progress and make necessary adjustments.
• Evaluate Outcomes: Assess whether the behavior modification was successful and make any needed changes to the approach.

Behavior modification not only involves changing behavior but also teaching new responses and skills. It focuses on creating lasting change by understanding and leveraging the components of operant conditioning.