Prepare a behavior modification plan in which you effectively utilize operant conditioning principles to change the behavior of the targeted individual(s).  

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To prepare for this discussion, please read Chapter 5 of your textbook. In addition, watch Classical and Operant Conditioning. Finally, review Instructor Guidance and Announcements.  In this discussion, you will consider learning from a psychological perspective by explaining operant conditioning and applying it to a real-life scenario.  Be sure to use your own academic voice (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. and apply in-text citations (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. appropriately throughout your post.

  • Discuss learning.  In your discussion, include the following:
    • Describe operant conditioning.
    • Select one of the following situations from everyday life in which learning (i.e. a relatively permanent change in behavior) is desirable.
      • Margot wants her husband, Todd, to stop leaving his dirty laundry on the floor.
      • Coach K wants to increase his basketball players’ free throw percentages.
      • Mr. Moore wants his dog to stop jumping up on visitors.
      • Biggs Boss wants his employees to arrive on time.
      • Mrs. O’Neill wants her preschoolers to raise their hands before speaking.
      • Joe wants his son to earn good grades.
      • Jack wants his girlfriend, Jill, to show more affection.
      • Marty wants his friend, Dave, to stop smoking.
      • Insert your own situation:  ____________________________________
  • Prepare a behavior modification plan in which you effectively utilize operant conditioning principles to change the behavior of the targeted individual(s).
    • Clearly identify and describe suitable reinforcers or punishers to attain your desired outcome.
    • Example:  If I want my son to eat his vegetables (i.e., increase a desired behavior), I could do several things.
      • If he eats his vegetables, I could apply a positive reinforcer by adding something he does like, such as screen time; alternatively, I could apply a negative reinforcer by taking away something he does not like, such as one of his weekly chores.
      • If he does not eat his vegetables, I could apply a positive punisher by adding something he does not like, such as a new weekly chore; alternatively, I could apply a negative punisher by taking away something he does like, such as screen time.
  • Defend your use of reinforcement and/or punishment as applied to the scenario.  Why did you choose it?  Why do you expect it to work?
  • Apply your knowledge of ethical considerations as relevant to operant conditioning.
  • Remember to use your own academic voice (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. and apply in-text citations (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. appropriately throughout your post.

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