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Operants.

Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior

|May 1, 1971

Summary

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The current definition of operants is too narrow for Skinner's theories on behavior. A broader definition is proposed to better encompass concepts like extinction and superstition in learning.

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Area of Science:

Behavioral psychology
Operant conditioning principles

Background:

Skinner's definition of an operant is a response class where all members share a property contingent on reinforcement.
This definition faces limitations in explaining complex behavioral phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

To propose a broader definition of an operant.
To address the inadequacy of the current definition in Skinner's accounts of extinction, superstition, and transfer of learning.

Main Methods:

Conceptual analysis of operant behavior.
Review of Skinner's theoretical accounts of learning processes.

Main Results:

The existing definition of an operant is insufficient for Skinner's broader theoretical framework.

A revised, more inclusive definition of operants is necessary.

Conclusions:

A broader definition of operants is required to adequately explain phenomena such as extinction, superstition, and transfer of learning.
Further discussion on the defining properties of operants is warranted.