The tendency for pigeons to peck at a light that has been associated with the noncontingent delivery of food is referred to as:
A) negative automaintenance.
B) autopecking.
C) schedule-induced pecking.
D) autoshaping.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Autoshaping is the correct term for the phenomenon where pigeons (or other animals) peck at a light or similar stimulus that has been associated with the delivery of food, even though their pecking is not required to obtain the food. This process occurs without explicit training for the pecking behavior, hence the term "auto" shaping.

The Tendency for Pigeons to Peck at a Light That