Related Experiment Videos
An experimental acquisition of maladaptive behavior by shaping
1University of North Florida.
Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Behavioral shaping can lead to maladaptive outcomes. Differential reinforcement of reaching and rearing in rats resulted in self-induced falls, demonstrating potential negative consequences of training methods.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral psychology
- Animal behavior studies
Background:
- Shaping is a common behavioral training technique.
- Potential negative consequences of shaping are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate maladaptive effects of shaping in animal behavior.
- To demonstrate how differential reinforcement can lead to detrimental actions.
Main Methods:
- Two Long Evans rats were trained using a shaping procedure.
- Behaviors of reaching and rearing were differentially reinforced.
- Training involved platform jumping and nose extension over an edge.
Main Results:
- Rats were trained to extend their noses over a platform edge.
- This behavior led to loss of balance and falls.
- Differential reinforcement produced maladaptive reaching and rearing.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral shaping can inadvertently create maladaptive behaviors.
- Differential reinforcement requires careful consideration to avoid negative outcomes.
- This study highlights the potential for training to induce self-harming actions.