Learning Objective:

Understand the principles of operant conditioning and the roles of reinforcement in shaping behavior.

Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is influenced by its consequences. A behavior that is followed by a reinforcing event is more likely to occur in the future.

Operant Behavior:

Behavior that operates on the environment to produce an effect (e.g., a rat pressing a lever).

Reinforcer:

Any event that increases the likelihood of a behavior.

• Primary Reinforcer: Naturally motivating; satisfies biological or psychological needs (e.g., food, water, sex).
• Secondary Reinforcer: Acquires reinforcing properties through association with a primary reinforcer (e.g., money, tokens).

Example (Skinner’s Rat Experiment):

Behavior-Reinforcement-Response Cycle:

This illustrates how reinforcers shape behaviors, including complex human behaviors such as habit formation and addiction.

Activity