Every time Malott presses the lever Kohler gives him an M&M. So he starts pressing the lever at an impressively high rate. Select all that this is an example of:
A) Respondent conditioning
B) Respondent behavior
C) Operant conditioning
D) Operant behavior
E) The law of effect
F) A behavioral contingency
G) Self-exploitation
H) Positive reinforcement

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This scenario is an example of operant conditioning (C) because Malott's behavior (pressing the lever) is influenced by the consequence of receiving an M&M, which is a form of operant behavior (D). It also illustrates the law of effect (E), which states that behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated. The relationship between pressing the lever and receiving an M&M establishes a behavioral contingency (F), where a specific behavior leads to a specific outcome. Finally, this is an example of positive reinforcement (H), where the addition of a rewarding stimulus (M&M) increases the likelihood of the behavior (pressing the lever) being repeated.

Every Time Malott Presses the Lever Kohler Gives Him an M&M