Introduction
A link formed between a specific behavior and a consequence for that conduct constitutes a psychological process referred to as operant conditioning. This relationship is based on the law of impact and applies reinforcement or retribution to embolden or deject particular actions. The condition is closely attributed to the work done by B.F. Skinner, a behavioral psychologist (Lee et al. 1663). In several well-known studies, he researched operant conditioning for the first time with animal subjects. He was a behaviorist who felt that psychology should only investigate observable behaviors.
According to Lee et al. (1663), Skinner was more concerned with learning due to operant conditioning, closely related to instrumental education. This paper describes the operant conditioning plan of a personal behavior change, including the type of reinforcer and reinforcement schedule. By deliberately implementing a favorable and tailored reinforcement schedule, the application of operant conditioning principles demonstrates a highly efficient and successful approach to achieving lasting beneficial changes in personal conduct.
Behavior to Change
The operant conditioning strategy is applied to the individual’s behavioral transformation. The desired behavior is to complete assigned tasks by the deadline regularly. This habit is essential for productivity and meeting duties in various areas of life. The primary reinforcers I prefer are positive feedback and recognition for completing assignments on time. This could include vocal commendation, written recognition, or even little rewards such as a break or a treat.
Reinforcement Schedule
The reinforcement schedule describes the technique used to distribute the reinforcer as planned. In this scenario, the behavior’s initial creation and reinforcement entail using a continuous schedule. This means that positive reinforcement will be given after each instance of concluding a given assignment on time (Thompson-Bramwell and Nicole 110). This provides a direct and instantaneous link between the activity and the reward that comes afterward, which is critical for early learning. As the behavior improves, I will switch to a partial reinforcement schedule, precisely a variable ratio schedule. This signifies that I will be awarded upon completing specific tasks.
The reinforcement schedule will help to maintain the behavior over the long term, as I will be motivated by the uncertainty of when the reward will be given. I will closely monitor the progress and obtain timely feedback, which, combined with positive reinforcement, will help refine the behavior and ensure it remains on track. This timetable aids in long-term behavior retention since the suspense of when the reward will be provided motivates me. I will diligently observe the development and collect the outcomes on time, which, when paired with positive support, can assist in perfecting the behavior and keeping it on track.
Rationale for Choices
Positive reinforcement is used because it delivers a pleasurable reward for displaying the desired behavior. This builds a positive link with finalizing my plans on time, making the action a lot more probable to occur in the future. However, in the early phases, continual reinforcement is used to develop a strong link between the action and its support. This aids in the acquisition phase since it emphasizes what is required of me and what I will get from it. Later stages require switching to a variable ratio schedule, which is critical for long-term behavior maintenance (Leeder 30). This plan of action will assist in keeping a sense of uncertainty, which aids in maintaining motivation and preventing the behavior from fading once it has been well-established. Regular monitoring and feedback are required to guarantee that the behavior remains consistent. This allows me to adjust as needed and motivates me to continue demonstrating the desired behavior.
Conclusion
The operant conditioning strategy influences behavior by consistently finishing apportioned chores by the deadline. Positive reinforcement, partial reinforcement, monitoring, and feedback are part of the reinforcement schedule, each playing a specific role in ensuring the targeted behavior is attained. The plan’s implementation attempts to create a positive reinforcement loop that encourages completing given tasks on time, making me a more productive and organized individual.
Works Cited
Lee, In-Seon, et al. “Operant and Classical Learning Principles Underlying Mind–Body Interaction in Pain Modulation: A Pilot FMRI Study.” Scientific Reports, vol. 11, no. 1. 2021, pp. 1663. Web.
Leeder, Thomas M. “Behaviorism, Skinner, and Operant Conditioning: Considerations for Sport Coaching Practice.” Strategies, vol. 35, no. 3, 2022, pp. 27–32. Web.
Thompson-Bramwell, Belinda, and Nicole Mauzard. “The Use of Conditioning in Behavior Modification.” East African Journal of Education and Social Sciences, vol. 3, no. 3, 2022, pp. 107–13. Web.