AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Shaping is the use of reinforcement of successive approximations of a desired behavior. Specifically, when using a shaping technique, each approximate desired behavior that is demonstrated is reinforced, while behaviors that are not approximations of the desired behavior are not reinforced.

Detailed explanation-2: -An example of shaping is when a baby or a toddler learns to walk. They are reinforced for crawling, then standing, then taking one step, then taking a few steps, and finally for walking. Reinforcement is typically in the form of lots of praise and attention from the child’s parents.

Detailed explanation-3: -Reinforcement is a process in which someone is given a reward (i.e., “positive reinforcement") or is spared an unpleasant consequence (i.e., “ negative reinforcement “) to incentivize a certain desirable behavior.

Detailed explanation-4: -Shaping is a training procedure used to establish a behavior that is not presently performed by an individual. It was first introduced by behavioral psychologist B. F. Skinner in the 1950’s and involves reinforcing small steps or ‘successive approximations’ towards the target behavior.

Detailed explanation-5: -Developed by B.F Skinner, operant conditioning is a way of learning by means of rewards and punishments. This type of conditioning holds that a certain behavior and a consequence, either a reward or punishment, have a connection which brings about learning.