Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026
14:05
Behavioral Assessment of Hearing in 2 to 4 Year-old Children: A Two-interval, Observer-based Procedure Using Conditioned Play-based Responses
Published on: January 23, 2017
An elementary student as a behavioral engineer
P R Surratt1, R E Ulrich, R P Hawkins
1Kalamazoo Valley Intermediate School District.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|July 1, 1969
Summary
A fifth grader successfully used behavior modification techniques to increase study behavior in first graders. Reinforcement strategies proved effective in managing classroom behavior and promoting academic engagement.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Applied Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Classroom behavior management is crucial for academic success.
- Non-study behaviors can disrupt learning environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of peer-delivered behavior modification.
- To assess the impact of specific reinforcement strategies on study behavior.
Main Methods:
- A fifth-grade student implemented behavior modification techniques with four first-grade students.
- Stimulus control and differential reinforcement were utilized.
- Post-experimental observations and replications were conducted.
Main Results:
- Study behavior was brought under stimulus control using desk lights associated with reinforcement.
- Differential reinforcement of other behaviors initially decreased studying.
- Reinforcement reinstatement led to a high and stable rate of study behavior.
- Behavioral changes were partially maintained in the regular classroom.
- Observer presence acted as a discriminative stimulus for increased study behavior.
Conclusions:
- Peer-delivered behavior modification can be effective in managing classroom behavior.
- Specific reinforcement schedules significantly impact academic engagement.
- Environmental factors and observer presence can influence behavior maintenance.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Behaviorism
The field of behaviorism was pioneered by figures such as Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, and B.F. Skinner fundamentally shifted the focus of psychology to the observable and controllable aspects of human and animal behavior. This shift marked a critical evolution in the discipline, emphasizing scientific rigor and experimental methodology.
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...
01:06Law of Effect
B.F. Skinner, a prominent figure in behavioral psychology, introduced operant conditioning by emphasizing the role of consequences in shaping behavior. This theory builds upon the law of effect proposed by Edward Thorndike, which posits that behaviors followed by satisfying outcomes are likely to be repeated. In contrast, those followed by unsatisfying outcomes are less likely to recur.
Edward Thorndike's foundational work involved studying learning in animals, particularly using puzzle boxes...
Edward Thorndike's foundational work involved studying learning in animals, particularly using puzzle boxes...
01:23Reinforcement
Positive and negative reinforcement are key concepts in operant conditioning, a learning process where the consequences of a behavior affect the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.
Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulus, increasing the frequency of that behavior. For example:
Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulus, increasing the frequency of that behavior. For example:
01:23Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
In psychology, reinforcement is a key concept in behavior modification. B.F. Skinner demonstrated this with his experiments involving rats in what is known as a Skinner box. The rats learned to press a lever to receive food, a primary reinforcer that fulfilled their innate need for nourishment.
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
01:21Behavior Modification
Behavioral approaches have often been criticized for ignoring mental processes and focusing solely on observable behavior. However, these approaches provide an optimistic perspective for individuals seeking to change their behaviors. Rather than concentrating on intrinsic personality traits, behavioral approaches suggest that even longstanding habits can be modified by changing the reward contingencies that maintain them.
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
01:24Operant Conditioning Intervention
Operant conditioning serves as a foundational principle in therapeutic interventions aimed at modifying maladaptive behaviors. Central to this approach is the notion that behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, are learned through reinforcement. By analyzing the environmental factors that reinforce problematic behaviors, clinicians can design interventions to weaken these reinforcements and replace maladaptive behaviors with healthier alternatives.
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...