Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 12: Problem 5

Which of the following learning mechanisms does B. F. Skinner see as being the major means by which behavior is learned? A. classical conditioning B. operant conditioning C. observational learning D. insight learning

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Operant conditioning.

Step by step solution

01

Understand B. F. Skinner's perspective on learning

B. F. Skinner was a prominent psychologist known for his work in behaviorism, specifically studying the impact of consequences on behavior. His theories on learning focused on how behaviors are learned through reinforcement and punishment, rather than through inherent cognitive processes.
02

Define classical conditioning

Classical conditioning is a learning process where an originally neutral stimulus becomes associated with a response due to pairing with an unconditioned stimulus which naturally elicits that response. This learning model was first demonstrated in the famous Pavlov's dog experiment.
03

Define operant conditioning

Operant conditioning is a learning process where an organism's behavior becomes more or less likely to occur based upon the consequences that follow the behavior. It focuses on using reinforcement (positive and negative) and punishment to shape behavior. B. F. Skinner is best known for his work in operant conditioning, conducting experiments with animals and developing tools like the Skinner box.
04

Define observational learning

Observational learning, also known as social learning or modeling, occurs when an organism learns by observing and imitating others' behavior. This type of learning has been demonstrated in various studies, such as Albert Bandura's famous Bobo doll experiment.
05

Define insight learning

Insight learning, also known as the aha! moment, is the sudden understanding or realization of how to solve a problem without the need for trial and error or reinforcement. This type of learning is often associated with cognitive psychologists, such as Wolfgang Köhler and his work with chimpanzees.
06

Identify the learning mechanism Skinner considered most important

In reviewing the descriptions of the different learning mechanisms and considering B. F. Skinner's work in behaviorism, it becomes evident that Skinner saw operant conditioning as the major means by which behavior is learned. So, the correct answer is: B. Operant conditioning

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

In The Nurture Assumption, Judith Harris argues that the evidence indicates that family environment has ______ on children's personalities. A. largely positive effects B. largely negative effects C. surprisingly little effect D. a powerful effect

Which of the following is not a shortcoming of self-report personality inventories? A. The accuracy of the results is a function of the honesty of the respondent. B. Respondents may attempt to answer in a way that makes them look good. C. There is sometimes a problem with "yea-sayers" or "nay-sayers." D. They are objective measures that are easy to administer and score.

When the values in a culture emphasize putting group goals ahead of personal goals and defining one's identity in terms of the groups one belongs to, the culture is said to be high in: A. self-actualization. B. self-efficacy. C. collectivism. D. individualism.

Which of the following approaches to personality is least deterministic? A. the humanistic approach B. the psychoanalytic approach C. Skinner's approach D. the behavioral approach

Freud believed that most personality disturbances are due to: A. the failure of parents to reinforce healthy behavior. B. a poor self-concept resulting from excessive parental demands. C. unconscious and unresolved sexual conflicts rooted in childhood experiences. D. the exposure of children to unhealthy role models.
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

Gender

Read Explanation

Research Methods in Psychology

Read Explanation

Clinical Psychology

Read Explanation

Sensation and Perception

Read Explanation

Social Psychology

Read Explanation

Biological Bases of Behavior

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free