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The basic assumption of operant conditioning is that behavior is influenced by its consequences. B F Skinner coined the term Operant conditioning because the organism produces a consequence by operating on the environment.
There are two important distinctions between classical and operant conditioning. In classical conditioning, responses are limited to reflexes, or automatic responses to specific stimuli. In operant conditioning, responses are not limited to reflexes, but include an entire array of voluntary ‘behaviors’.
According to the principle of operant conditioning, the behavior that occurs most frequently is the one which produces a positive consequence. If the baby’s parents always hug the child whenever it smiles, the baby will probably smile a great deal. If a person with the intent to become powerful knows the only way to become powerful is through stealing, probably he might engage in this criminal activity.
At first glance, operant conditioning appears straight forward and perhaps even simple minded. It is no surprise that people perform certain acts because these acts produce positive consequences. But simple as it may appear, operant conditioning may explain how a good deal of behavior is learned.
Kavungya answered the question on May 8, 2019 at 08:27
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