BA525 UNIT 6 Discussion
Understanding the Role of Reinforcement and Punishment in Establishing and Changing Behavior
A thorough understanding of historical conceptualizations and modern applications of reinforcement and punishment is essential to mastering a behavior analytic understanding of the behavior of both human and nonhuman animals.
- First, describe positive and negative reinforcement and provide a hypothetical example for each.
- Next review historical developments in research that have contributed to understanding of the processes of reinforcement and punishment.
- Then, present the different schedules of reinforcement and punishment, including continuous schedules, fixed and variable schedules, extinction schedules and differential reinforcement schedules. Include a brief consideration of the role of thinning schedules and token economy on sustaining behavior change.
- Finally, discuss how a research based understanding of schedules of reinforcement and punishment impact the therapeutic work of applied behavior analysts.
- Be sure that you are using your course readings throughout to support your analysis.
Review two of your classmates' responses, using the following ideas as a guide:
- Are the definitions of positive and negative reinforcement clear and accurate?
- Do the hypothetical examples provided effectively illustrate the concepts of positive and negative reinforcement?
- Does the review of historical developments in reinforcement and punishment research adequately highlight key contributions and their relevance to understanding behavior modification.
- Ask at least one thoughtful follow-up question.