Operant Conditioning Terms

Thorndike's general theory of learning: Any behavior that leads to a "satisfying state of affairs" will likely occur again, and any behavior that leads to an "annoying state of affairs".

A stimulus that follows a response and increases the likelihood that the response will be repeated.

A process of operant conditioning; it involves reinforcing behaviors that are increasingly similar to desired behavior.

The increase in the probability of a behavior's being repeated following the administration of a stimulus.

The increase in the probability of a behavior's being repeated through the removal of a stimulus.

Punishment that occurs with the administration of a stimulus and thus decreases the probability of a behavior recurring.

Punishment that occurs with the removal of a stimulus and thus decreases the probability of a behavior's recurring.

A type of learning in which the desired behavior is reinforced each time it occurs.

A type of learning in which behavior is reinforced intermittently.

A schedule in which reinforcement is based on the number of times the behavior occurs.

A schedule in which reinforcement is available after a specific unit of time.

A schedule in which reinforcement is consistently provided upon each occurrence.

A schedule in which reinforcement is applied at different rates or at different times.

The greater persistence of behavior under partial reinforcement than under continuous reinforcement.

The use of operant-conditioning techniques to eliminate unwanted behaviors and replace them with desirable ones.

A visual/spatial mental representation of an environment. [Rats & Goal Box Within Maze]

Learning that takes place in the absence of reinforcement.

(Insight learning)

A unit of knowledge transferred within culture. [Monkey washing off sweet potatoes.]

Learning that occurs when behaviors are acquired or modified following exposure to others performing the behavior. [The Bobo Dolls].

The imitation of behavior through observational learning.

Learning that occurs when people learn the consequences of an action by observing others being rewarded or punished for performing the action.

Neurons that are activated during observation of others performing an action.

Self administered shocks to pleasure centers located within brain.

Subcortcial brain region part of the limbic system and the experience of pleasure usually results from activation of dopamine neurons in this area.

Storage of learned material.

A decrease in behavioral response following repeated exposure to nonthreatening stimuli.

An increase in behavioral response following exposure to a threatening stimulus.

The strengthening of a synaptic connection so that postsynaptic neurons are more easily activated.