KEY ELEMENTS OF OPERANT CONDITIONING

Question 1

Reinforcement

Answer 1

The process of making the behaviour more likely to be repeated in the future because it is followed by a pleasant consequence for the learner.

Question 2

Reinforcer

Answer 2

any stimulus that strengthens a response. i.e. a pleasant consequence, often referred to as a reward.

Question 3

Positive reinforcement

Answer 3

The strengthening of a behaviour because it is followed by the addition of a pleasant stimulus.

Question 4

Negative reinforcement

Answer 4

The strengthening of a behaviour because it is followed by the removal of an unpleasant or aversive stimulus.