Behavior analysts work to change an individual’s socially significant behaviors in meaningful ways. As the conceptually systematic dimension states, basic principles of behavior are used to change behaviors. The first basic principle we explore is reinforcement. Reinforcement increases behavior. Punishment decreases behavior. In the practice of behavior analysis, you are arranging environmental variables to change behavior in a socially significant way. In order to understand how to apply these concepts you must first understand how these theories influence your own behavior. In this assignment you will look at your own behavior and determine how certain behaviors you exhibit may be reinforced and how others may be naturally punished by your environment.
This week, we also explore another basic principle of behaviorpunishment. Punishment decreases behavior. Many misconceptions about punishment exist, but when used correctly, it is an important part of the learning process. Punishment is a consequence that follows a behavior and decreases the future likelihood of that behavior occurring again. Decreasing behaviors is a common task for behavior analysts, so it is important to understand how punishment works.
Instructions
For this assignment, complete the following using the . Please try to provide examples of the impact of the environment on your behavior through naturally occurring reinforcement and punishment and the natural occurrence of extinction.
Reinforcement
Provide one detailed example of how positive reinforcement works to increase or maintain a behaviors occurrence in your own life.
Provide one detailed example of how negative reinforcement works to increase or maintain a behaviors occurrence in your own life.
Punishment
Provide one detailed example of how positive punishment works to decrease a behaviors occurrence in your own life.
Provide one detailed example of how negative punishment works to decrease a behaviors occurrence in your own life.
Extinction
Provide one detailed example of how a behavior in your own life was reduced through extinction.