learning that occurs when behaviour is followed by an event, and the nature of this event increases or decreases probability of being repeated
Positive reinforcement
when something nice is introduced to an individual following a behaviour, increasing its probability of being repeated
Negative reinforcement
when something unpleasant is removed from an individual following a behaviour, increasing probability of it being repeated
Positive punishment
when something unpleasant is introduced following a behaviour, decreasing probability of it being repeated
Negative punishment
when something nice is removed from an individual following a behaviour, decreasing probability of it being repeated
Primary + secondary reinforcement
takes place when thing that acts as reinforcer has biological significance, such as food
takes place when thing that acts as a reinforcer has become associated w something of biological significance, such as money
Skinner box
or operant chamber - contained a supply of food pellets that could be released when animal operated a lever
some had electrified floors to punish behaviour
Strength 1
Skinner and many others did lab experiments demonstrating operant conditioning in animals - consistent findings regarding ability to modify behaviour using reinforcement and punishment - supports theory
Strength 2
Application to education and childcare - systems of reinforcement used in a range of places like schools.
Eg if a child is given a gold star for good work, they're encouraged to repeat it - shows its use in real life
Weakness 1
Only explains how existing behaviours are strengthened or weakened -not their origination so it's only a partial explanation for learning of behaviour
