3.8 Operant Conditioning Quiz

Who is considered the founder of the modern behavioral perspective?

• Martin Seligman

• Edward Thorndike

• B. F. Skinner

• John Watson

What is the main focus of operant conditioning?

• Involuntary behavior

• Genetic predispositions

• Observable behaviors

• Consequences of behavior

What does the law of effect state?

• Behaviors followed by pleasant consequences are likely to be repeated.

• Involuntary responses are conditioned.

• All behaviors are learned through observation.

• Genetics determine all behaviors.

What did Thorndike use in his experiment to demonstrate the law of effect?

• Rats in a maze

• Cats in a puzzle box

• Dogs in a shuttle box

• Pigeons playing ping pong

What is learned helplessness?

• A state where organisms learn they have no control over outcomes.

• A method of teaching using rewards and punishments.

• A genetic predisposition to avoid certain behaviors.

• A type of reinforcement that strengthens behavior.

Which psychologist is associated with the concept of learned helplessness?

• Martin Seligman

• Edward Thorndike

• John Watson

• B. F. Skinner

What is the primary difference between classical and operant conditioning?

• Classical conditioning involves voluntary behavior.

• Operant conditioning involves involuntary behavior.

• Classical conditioning deals with involuntary behavior, while operant conditioning deals with consequences of behavior.

• Operant conditioning is based on genetic factors.

What is reinforcement in the context of operant conditioning?

• An involuntary response to a stimulus.

• A genetic trait that influences behavior.

• A consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior.

• A consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior.

What did Skinner believe about the role of genetics in behavior?

• Genetics and environment equally influence behavior.

• Genetics determine involuntary behaviors only.

• Genetics are incidental and not a major factor in behavior.

• Genetics are the primary factor in determining behavior.

What is an example of a superstitious behavior as described in the text?

• Studying hard for a test and getting a good grade.

• Using a specific pen for a test because it previously coincided with a good grade.

• Training a dog to sit using treats.

• A cat learning to press a lever for food.