Answer to Question #277306 in Psychology for Mary

Question

. Compare and contrast the four methods used to modify behavior in operant

conditioning (positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, punishment,

response cost), giving original examples of how each can be used in the classroom

setting.

Include in your essay a discussion of the four schedules of reinforcement,

describing the likely response patterns associated with each. Give original

examples of how each can be used in the classroom.

Instructions are given below:

1. The word limit of this essay is 1500- 2000 words

2. The essay should consist of:

a. An introduction

b. Discuss the types of operant conditioning with authentic/ realistic examples

c. Discuss the ways on how each method can be used to overcome the issue along

with the likely response pattern

d. Describe some of the major benefits of using this method in terms of recent

research.

e. Conclusion

Answer 1

Operant conditioning is one of the most effective methods used to modify behavior; it focuses on using reinforcement techniques to promote a particular behavior on an individual in a specialized manner and punishment to discourage bad unwanted behavior. There are four different methods used to practice operant conditioning: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, punishment, and response cost.

Positive reinforcement involves adding something pleasant to increase the likelihood of good behavior while negative reinforcement consists of removing something to promote good behavior. Both strengthened behavior condition occurs in positive refrainment, unlike in negative reinforcement. An example of positive reinforcement is when a child screams and parents pay attention, and the child would scream more to get the attention. On the other hand, punishment and response costs involve both negative and positive elements; punishment involves suing negative conditions to weaken unwanted behavior, such as gaining a child for stealing in exams. Response cost involves positive or negative conditions tailored to weakened unwanted behavior.