Operant and Respondent Conditioning

In this unit, we explore two types of learning—operant and respondent conditioning. With respondent conditioning, individuals emit reflexive behavior in the presence of certain stimuli. With operant conditioning, behaviors continue to occur, or not, due to the consequences that follow them. As behavior analysts, we frequently use operant conditioning to teach new behaviors (and eliminate old behaviors) by manipulating the consequences that follow them. Respondent conditioning is also used by behavior analysts, for example, by establishing various reinforcers through pairing of stimuli.

For this assignment, complete the following:

• Define operant and respondent conditioning.
• Describe the similarities and differences between these two types of learning.
• Provide two real-world, detailed examples of operant conditioning and two real-world, detailed examples of respondent conditioning.

Assignment Requirements

• Written communication: Should be free of errors that detract from the overall message.
• APA formatting: References and citations are formatted according to current APA style guidelines.
• Resources: Minimum of 1–2 scholarly or professional resources.
• Length: 2–3 double-spaced pages, in addition to the title page and reference page.
• Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 point.