Behavioural Modification

Behavioural Modification is a therapeutic and treatment approach designed to change a undesirable negative behaviour. By using a system of positive or negative consequences, an individual learns the correct set of responses for any given stimulus.

Classical Conditioning is a type of learning where a natural. involuntary response (e.g. - salivation) is elicited by a conditioned (or sometimes called learned) stimulus (e.g. - a bell) that previously was presented in conjunction with an unconditioned stimulus (e.g. - food). The classic example is of Pavlov conditioning his dogs to salivate upon hearing a bell ringing. Typically, classical conditioning elicits involuntary responses.

Operant conditioning is a type of learning where a specific action is elicited because it produces a punishment or reward. Operant conditioning was first described by behavioural scientist B.F. Skinner. In contrast to classical conditioning, operant conditioning usually elicits voluntary responses.

Always remember: the goal of reinforcement is to cause an increase in a behaviour (e.g. - you want a child to do more dishes).

Always remember: the goal of punishment is to cause a decrease in a behaviour (e.g. - you want a child to stop bullying others).

Extinction is the discontinuation of reinforcement (either positive or negative), which eventually eliminates a behaviour. This can occur in both operant or classical conditioning.