Learning Theory and Behavior Modification
Key Concepts
- Classical conditioning: Pavlovian; associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response (e.g., fear conditioning).
- Operant conditioning: Skinnerian; behavior controlled by consequences (reinforcement, punishment, extinction).
- Reinforcement schedules: Continuous, intermittent (ratio, interval), and their effects on behavior persistence.
- Desensitization and counterconditioning: Gradual exposure to a feared stimulus while pairing with something pleasant.
- Flooding: Prolonged exposure to a feared stimulus without escape; risky and not recommended.
- Extinction: Withholding reinforcement leads to decrease in behavior; may cause extinction burst.
- Punishment: Positive punishment (adding aversive) vs. negative punishment (removing desirable); drawbacks include fear, aggression, and suppression of behavior without teaching alternatives.
- Shaping: Reinforcing successive approximations.
Traps
- Confusing negative reinforcement (removal of aversive to increase behavior) with positive punishment (addition of aversive to decrease behavior).
- Assuming punishment is always effective; it often fails to address underlying cause and can worsen fear.
- Overlooking the need for consistency and timing in conditioning.
- Misunderstanding that desensitization requires sub-threshold exposure; flooding can sensitize.
Worked Example
A dog fears veterinary exams. Desensitization: start with low-intensity handling (e.g., touching paw) while giving treats (counterconditioning). Gradually increase intensity. Rule of thumb: keep the animal under threshold; if it shows fear, you've gone too fast. Never use flooding as it may worsen fear.