This activity is based upon Chapters 26, 29, & 30 of the BALC Text and Skinner Chapter 8.
Note that some key vocabulary is bolded. You can use bullet points to answer your questions, but note that to fully answer each question, you’ll need to write the equivalent of at least two paragraphs.
You are writing a plan for a student in an inclusive classroom whose spitball throwing behavior is reinforced by attention. Currently, the behavior is being addressed by taking away preferred items. You suggest extinction is the best way to go for the teacher. How will you inform them about why you want to use extinction and reinforcing alternative behavior over punishment? How will you discuss and address the side effects of extinction?
2. You are working with a parent who “has tried all sorts of punishments.” They mention removal of privileges contingent upon a response, stern reprimands, lectures, sending them to their room, even a slight tap on the hand. We have discussed reinforcers and assessment of potential reinforcers and punishers. Why are these efforts not effective, and what advice would you give to the parents?
3. Define unconditioned punishment and conditioned punishment. Now describe a real world example from your personal experiences, work, or observations.
4. In Skinner, the discussion of causes and reasons provided much to think about. Review the article from CNN written 2012 (https://www.cnn.com/2012/07/14/world/americas/brazil-alternative-sentence-reduction/index.html) about a prison that implements a bike riding and book reading program or listen to the NPR recording in 2017 presents the reading program in a 4-minute presentation. Explain the principles and procedures in effect for the prisoners participating in the program. Do you agree or disagree with use of the
intervention while imprisoned? How does the prisoner’s situation reflect Skinner’s discussion of contingency shaped vs rule governed behavior?
5. Technical language reminder: there is no such thing as “reinforcements.” Reinforcement refers to the whole process- the same with punishment! Relatedly “reinforcer” or “reinforcing stimulus” is what can be delivered. In each of the following statements, correct the technical language, or mark it as correct.
a. Following a correct response, she delivered a reinforcement.
b. It is important to use a variety of reinforcements in order to avoid satiation.
c. The physical pain of touching a hot stove is a powerful punisher.
d. From question #2- a parent has tried all sorts of punishments.