ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the idea that behavior is a function of its consequences. It discusses learning about the consequences of one's behavior asbehavior-consequence learning, while learning about the stimuli that predict reinforcement is termed stimulus-relation learning. A contingency of reinforcement defines the relationship among the events that set the occasion for behavior, the operant class, and the consequences that follow operant behavior. The three-term operant contingency of reinforcement stipulates the discriminative stimulus, the operant, and the reinforcing stimulus. Some social psychologists and educators have questioned the practice of using rewards in business, education, and behavior modification programs. The concern is that rewards are experienced as controlling, thereby leading to a reduction in an individual's self-determination, intrinsic motivation, and creative performance. Operant conditioning refers to an increase or decrease in operant behavior as a function of a contingency of reinforcement. Staying close to the food cup and moving toward it are operants that have been selected by their reinforcing consequences.
