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"Reinforcement" in behavior theory

W N Schoenfeld

    The Pavlovian Journal of Biological Science
    |July 1, 1978
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Reinforcement in behaviorism evolved from a descriptive term to a central concept. Any stimulus can function as a reinforcer, depending on various parameters.

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    Area of Science:

    • Behavioral Psychology
    • Neuroscience
    • Learning Theory

    Background:

    • The concept of reinforcement originated in Pavlovian (classical) conditioning as a descriptor of stimulus relations.
    • In operant conditioning, reinforcement became a central concept, leading to theories about the specific nature of reinforcing stimuli.
    • Behavior theorists initially proposed that reinforcers belonged to a limited, specialized class of stimuli or events.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To trace the conceptual evolution of reinforcement from Pavlovian to operant conditioning.
    • To discuss the shift in understanding the nature of reinforcement in behavior theory.
    • To comment on the developments in reinforcement theory from the perspective of reflex behavior theory.

    Main Methods:

    • Conceptual analysis of historical developments in conditioning theory.

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  • Review of theoretical perspectives on the nature of reinforcement.
  • Integration of findings within the framework of reflex behavior theory.

    • Main Results:

    • Reinforcement initially described the functional relationship between unconditional and conditional stimuli in Pavlovian conditioning.
    • In operant conditioning, reinforcement evolved into a key concept with specific qualifications and expectations.
    • Current understanding acknowledges that any stimulus can function as a reinforcer, contingent on factors like species, intensity, modality, and schedule.

    Conclusions:

    • The understanding of reinforcement has broadened significantly from its origins.
    • The "nature of reinforcement" is not limited to a special class of stimuli but is context-dependent.
    • Reflex behavior theory provides a valuable standpoint for analyzing these conceptual shifts in reinforcement principles.