INSTRUMENTAL CONDITIONING Meaning and
Definition
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Instrumental conditioning, also known as operant conditioning or instrumental learning, refers to a type of learning process in which behaviors are modified based on the consequences they produce. It involves the association between a specific behavior and its consequences, leading to an increase or decrease in the likelihood of that behavior occurring again in the future.
In instrumental conditioning, an organism learns to associate its behaviors with their outcomes through trial and error. The process involves a three-step sequence: first, the organism engages in a behavior or response, which is then followed by a consequence, either a rewarding or punishing one. Depending on the consequences, the behavior will either be strengthened or weakened over time.
Positive reinforcement is a type of consequence that strengthens a behavior by providing a desirable stimulus, such as praise or a reward. Negative reinforcement, on the other hand, strengthens behavior by removing an unpleasant stimulus, thus increasing the likelihood of the behavior occurring again. Punishment is a consequence that weakens a behavior by introducing an unpleasant or aversive stimulus, reducing the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.
The principles of instrumental conditioning have been extensively studied and applied in various fields, such as psychology, education, and animal training. This form of conditioning has proven to be an effective tool in modifying behavior, as it helps organisms adapt and learn to maximize positive outcomes while minimizing negative consequences.
Common Misspellings for INSTRUMENTAL CONDITIONING
- unstrumental conditioning
- jnstrumental conditioning
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- onstrumental conditioning
- 9nstrumental conditioning
- 8nstrumental conditioning
- ibstrumental conditioning
- imstrumental conditioning
- ijstrumental conditioning
- ihstrumental conditioning
- inatrumental conditioning
- inztrumental conditioning
- inxtrumental conditioning
- indtrumental conditioning
- inetrumental conditioning
- inwtrumental conditioning
- insrrumental conditioning
- insfrumental conditioning
- insgrumental conditioning
Etymology of INSTRUMENTAL CONDITIONING
The word "instrumental conditioning" originated from the field of psychology, particularly from the work of American psychologist B.F. Skinner. The term "instrumental" refers to the use of an instrument or a means to achieve a specific goal or outcome. In this context, it refers to the idea that behavior is influenced by the consequences or outcomes that result from engaging in that behavior.
Skinner used the term "operant conditioning" to describe his theory and experiments on learning and behavior. However, the terms "operant" and "instrumental" conditioning are often used interchangeably, both referring to the type of learning in which behavior is strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow it.
The term "conditioning" in this context refers to the process of learning through repeated associations between a stimulus and a response. With instrumental or operant conditioning, behavior is modified and shaped by reinforcements or punishments.
