Gerry wants to train his new puppy not to chew on the furniture. He will be most successful in reducing the puppy's chewing behaviour if he uses:
A) operant conditioning.
B) behaviourism.
C) second-order conditioning.
D) classical conditioning.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Operant conditioning involves using reinforcement and punishment to modify behaviour. In this case, Gerry can use positive reinforcement (such as giving the puppy a treat) when the puppy chews on appropriate items (like chew toys) and negative punishment (such as withholding attention) when the puppy chews on the furniture. This will increase the likelihood of the puppy chewing on the appropriate items and decrease the likelihood of the puppy chewing on the furniture in the future. Behaviourism and second-order conditioning are related concepts, but not directly applicable to this situation. Classical conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus (like a bell) with an unconditioned stimulus (like food) to create a conditioned response (like salivation when hearing the bell). This is not directly related to modifying the puppy's behaviour of chewing on furniture.

Gerry Wants to Train His New Puppy Not to Chew