Chapter 8 - Second Half Flashcards
Positive Reinforcement
Increasing behavior by presenting positive stimuli, such as food. A positive reinforcer is any stimulus that, when presented after a response, strengthens the response.
Reinforcer
In operant conditioning, any event that strengthens the behavior it follows.
Negative Reinforcement
Increasing behaviors by stopping or reducing negative stimuli, such as shock. A negative reinforcer is any stimuli that, when removed after a response strengthens the response.
Primary Reinforcer
In innately reinforcing stimulus, such as one that satisfies a biological need.
Conditioned Reinforcer
A stimulus that gains its reinforcing power through its association with a primary reinforcer; also known as a secondary reinforcer.
Continuous Reinforcement
Reinforcing the desired response every time it occurs.
Partial reinforcement
Reinforcing a response only part of the time; results in slower acquisition of a response but much greater reduces extinction than continuous reinforcement.
Fixed Ratio Schedule
In operant conditioning, a reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response only after a specified number of responses.
Variable Ratio Schedule
In operant conditioning, a reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response after an unpredictable number of responses.
Fixed Interval Schedule
In operant conditioning, a reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response only after a specified time has elapsed.
Variable Interval Schedule
In operant conditioning, a reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response at unpredictable time intervals.
Punishment
An event that decreases the behavior it follows.
Cognitive Map
A mental representation of the layout of one’s environment. For example, after exploring a maze, rats act as if they have learned a cognitive map of it.
Latent Learning
Learning that occurs but is not apparent until there is an incentive to demonstrate it.
Intrinsic Motivation
A desire to perform a behavior for its own sake.
