B.F. Skinner developed the theory of operant conditioning which examines how voluntary behaviors are influenced by consequences. Key aspects of his theory include reinforcement which increases behaviors, punishment which decreases behaviors, and variable schedules of reinforcement which produce unpredictable but steady responding. Skinner also contributed to techniques like shaping behaviors incrementally and using token economies to modify behaviors through positive reinforcement.

1. B.F. Skinner and Operant
Conditioning

2. Overview
• Operant Conditioning
• Schedule of Reinforcement
• Variable Schedule
• Shaping
• Behavior Modification and Token
Economy

3. Operant Conditioning
• Operant Behavior
– “voluntary” behavior – e.g. pushing on bar
• Reinforcement
– A consequence that causes a behavior to occur with
greater frequency
• Punishment
– A consequence that causes a behavior to occur with
less frequency
• Extinction
– Lack of consequence to a behavior

4. Schedule of Reinforcement
and Variable Schedule
• Continuous Reinforcement
• Stable rate
• Fixed ratio
• Variable schedule

5. Shaping and Aversive Stimulus
• Shaping
• Aversive Stimulus

6. Behavioral Modification and
Token Economy
• B-Mod
• Token Economy
• Drawbacks