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Teaching a Behavior Using Operant Conditioning

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Teaching a Behavior Using Operant Conditioning

Introduction

Operant conditioning is a theory developed by B.F. Skinner aims to clarify the

mechanisms by which behavior can be modified through the use of rewards and punishments.

The efficacy of its utilization of these tools to manipulate actions is exceptionally potent.

Implementing a consistent exercise regimen has been selected as the behavior for this

instructional strategy (Vargas, 2017). As the importance of a healthy lifestyle increases, it is

beneficial to encourage people to exercise frequently. Exercising can significantly enhance my

friend's overall health. This essay discusses the application of operant conditioning to instruct my

friend on how to establish a healthy exercise regimen. As a result, My friend will learn

effectively and be able to manage any issues that may arise with this method.

Operant Conditioning Approach

In order to implement operant conditioning, I will make use of positive reinforcement to

bring about the desired behavior. The practice of providing a pleasant reward following a

positive action is one example of positive reinforcement. The likelihood of the positive conduct

occurring again in the future is increased as a result of this. In order to establish a routine for

working out, providing positive support may involve:

 Showering the friend with compliments.

 Offering awards.

 Expressing acceptance of the friendship each time the friend works out.
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Implementation

In the action step, essential steps are taken to use operant conditioning correctly in

teaching how to set up a routine of regular exercise. First, the action of doing exercise daily in a

specific period will be clearly outlined during our discussion and challenges. Then, good rewards

and prestigious gifts are picked to encourage my friend. The rewards could include saying nice

words, a weekly chart showing their progress, or sometimes small and heavy treats for reaching

specific goals. It's essential to be consistent with rewards, making sure they are given quickly

every time my friend makes good progress.

Rationale for Operant Conditioning

Teaching exercises is best with operant conditioning because it uses good rewards to

make the behavior of exercising stronger, as my friend will be motivated. The method uses the

regular human habit of doing things that cause good results (Strohacker et al.,2014). Positive

reinforcement, as a result of operant conditioning, is a desirable stimulus that can be added to

increase a behavior. As a result of this learning theory, there will be a likelihood of the behavior

becoming a regular activity.

Challenges in Operant Conditioning

Some challenges are associated with operant conditioning. One possible problem is the

requirement for regular support. If we keep giving good things for doing the right thing, people

might remember about getting rewards, and as a result, they may not do it as much. Also, there is

a need to think about how different people see what makes a reward good enough for them. What

gets one person going might not work as well on someone else.

Conclusion
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In conclusion, operant conditioning is a solid way to learn how to do something, like

getting into the habit of exercising every day. This method makes learning work properly by

using encouragement, always rewarding good behavior, and taking into account what each

person likes as reinforcement. Even though there might be challenges, using operant

conditioning to help people change good habits is very helpful and flexible in comparison to

other types of learning theories.

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References

Strohacker, K., Galarraga, O., & Williams, D. M. (2014). The impact of incentives on exercise

behavior: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Annals of Behavioral

Medicine, 48(1), 92-99. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-013-9577-4

Vargas, E. A. (2017). BF Skinner’s theory of behavior. European Journal of Behavior Analysis,

18(1), 2-38. https://doi.org/10.1080/15021149.2015.1065640