Question

According to B. F. Skinner, the basic mechanism for controlling human behavior is:

• A. Punishment
• B. Generalisation
• C. Extinction
• D. Reinforcement

Hint:

Reinforcement is most effective when applied immediately after the desired behavior, ensuring a clear association between the behavior and its consequence.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

B. F. Skinner, a leading figure in behaviorism, introduced operant conditioning, where reinforcement plays a central role in shaping behavior. Reinforcement refers to any event that strengthens or increases the likelihood of a behavior.

• Positive reinforcement: Involves adding a rewarding stimulus (e.g., praise, food) to encourage a behavior.
• Negative reinforcement: Involves removing an aversive stimulus (e.g., reducing loud noise) to encourage a behavior.
• Key distinction: Unlike punishment, which aims to reduce behaviors, reinforcement focuses on promoting desirable behaviors by associating them with favorable outcomes.