Skinner's Operant Conditioning Concepts

This video tutorial explores individualistic theories of criminality, focusing on learning theories, particularly behavioral approaches. It delves into B.F. Skinner's operant conditioning, explaining how reinforcement and punishment influence behavior. The video applies these concepts to human criminal behavior, discussing positive and negative reinforcement and the role of punishment. It also highlights the limitations of applying animal-based research to humans, emphasizing the complexity of human motivations. The tutorial concludes with a discussion on the effectiveness of these theories in understanding and treating criminal behavior.

What is the main focus of individualistic theories of criminality?

• Genetic predispositions

• Economic factors

• Learning theories

• Societal influences

According to B.F. Skinner, what can reinforcement be?

• Neither positive nor negative

• Only negative

• Only positive

• Both positive and negative

What is the purpose of punishment in Skinner's operant conditioning?

• To ignore behavior

• To reinforce behavior

• To stop or prevent a behavior

• To reward behavior

In Skinner's experiments, what was the result of pressing the lever in the positive reinforcement condition?

• The animal received a shock

• The animal received food

• The animal was punished

• The animal was ignored

What is negative reinforcement in Skinner's experiments?

• Performing a behavior to be ignored

• Performing a behavior to get punished

• Performing a behavior to receive a reward

• Performing a behavior to stop an unpleasant situation

How does positive reinforcement apply to human criminal behavior?

• It has no effect

• It results in punishment

• It prevents a situation from getting worse

• It leads to financial gain or status

What is an example of negative reinforcement in human criminal behavior?

• Committing a crime to prevent a worse situation

• Committing a crime for status

• Committing a crime to get punished

• Committing a crime for financial gain

What is a limitation of Skinner's theories when applied to humans?

• Skinner's theories only apply to animals

• Skinner's theories are too complex

• Humans have a wider range of motivations

• Skinner's theories ignore reinforcement

What is one application of Skinner's research to psychological treatments?

• Group therapy

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

• Development of token economies

• Use of medication

What does Skinner's research fail to explain about behavior?

• How behavior is punished

• How behavior is reinforced

• Why behavior is performed initially

• Why behavior is repeated