B.3 Identify and distinguish between respondent and operant conditioning.

Respondent Conditioning

Respondent conditioning, also known as classical conditioning, is a type of learning in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a stimulus that naturally elicits a response. Through repeated pairing, the neutral stimulus comes to elicit the same response as the naturally occurring stimulus.

Example: Pavlov’s famous experiment with dogs is a classic example of respondent conditioning. Initially, the sound of a bell (neutral stimulus) does not elicit any response from the dogs. However, by repeatedly pairing the sound of the bell with the presentation of food (which naturally elicits salivation), the dogs eventually begin to salivate (response) in response to the sound of the bell alone. The sound of the bell has become a conditioned stimulus that elicits a conditioned response (salivation).

Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning, also known as instrumental conditioning, is a type of learning in which behaviors are strengthened or weakened based on their consequences. Behaviors that are followed by favorable consequences are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors followed by unfavorable consequences are less likely to be repeated.

Example:  A simple example of operant conditioning is training a dog to sit on command. When the dog sits (behavior) and is immediately given a treat (favorable consequence), the dog is more likely to sit again in the future. The treat serves as a positive reinforcement, strengthening the behavior of sitting. On the other hand, if the dog jumps (behavior) and is ignored (no consequence or neutral consequence), the jumping behavior is less likely to be repeated because it is not reinforced.

In operant conditioning, behaviors are shaped through reinforcement (increasing the likelihood of behavior) and punishment (decreasing the likelihood of behavior). It is based on the principles of contingencies between behaviors and their consequences.

Both respondent conditioning and operant conditioning are fundamental processes in behavior analysis and play a crucial role in understanding and modifying behavior.