#1
Who is considered the founder of operant conditioning?
B.F. Skinner
ExplanationSkinner is credited with developing the principles of operant conditioning.
#2
Which of the following is a key component of Skinner's theory of operant conditioning?
Reinforcement
ExplanationReinforcement, both positive and negative, is central to Skinner's theory of operant conditioning.
#3
In operant conditioning, what is the term for a stimulus that decreases the likelihood of a behavior when presented?
Punisher
ExplanationA punisher is a stimulus that decreases the likelihood of a behavior when introduced.
#4
Which of the following is NOT a type of reinforcement in operant conditioning?
Extinction
ExplanationExtinction is not a form of reinforcement; it involves the cessation of reinforcement.
#5
What does the term 'operant' refer to in operant conditioning?
Voluntary behaviors
ExplanationOperant behaviors are those that are controlled by their consequences, often voluntarily performed.
#6
What is a primary reinforcer in operant conditioning?
A reward that is inherently satisfying
ExplanationPrimary reinforcers are inherently satisfying stimuli, such as food or water.
#7
What is shaping in behavioral psychology?
The process of gradually refining behaviors through reinforcement
ExplanationShaping involves reinforcing successive approximations of a desired behavior.
#8
What is the term for the gradual disappearance of a conditioned response when the conditioned stimulus is presented without the unconditioned stimulus?
Extinction
ExplanationExtinction occurs when a conditioned response diminishes due to lack of reinforcement.
#9
Which of the following is an example of negative reinforcement?
Removing a chore for good behavior
ExplanationNegative reinforcement involves the removal of an aversive stimulus to increase a behavior's likelihood.
#10
What is the process of chaining in operant conditioning?
Reinforcing individual behaviors separately before combining them into a sequence
ExplanationChaining involves reinforcing individual behaviors before linking them into a complex sequence.
#11
What is a Skinner box used for?
To study operant conditioning
ExplanationA Skinner box is an experimental apparatus used to study operant conditioning in animals.
#12
What is the concept of reinforcement schedules in operant conditioning?
It determines how often reinforcement is provided for a behavior
ExplanationReinforcement schedules dictate the timing and frequency of reinforcement.
#13
What is a limitation of Skinner's behaviorism?
It fails to explain cognitive processes
ExplanationSkinner's behaviorism is criticized for its neglect of internal mental processes.
#14
In the context of operant conditioning, what does the term 'punishment' refer to?
The weakening of a behavior through the presentation of an aversive stimulus
ExplanationPunishment involves presenting an aversive stimulus to decrease the likelihood of a behavior.