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  2. AP Psychology
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Operant Conditioning

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#AP Psychology Study Guide: Operant Conditioning

#Unit 6: Learning

Exam Tip

Unit 6: Learning accounts for 7-9% of the AP Psychology exam. Be sure to understand the intricacies of classical and operant conditioning, as well as observational learning.

#Operant Conditioning

Key Concept

Operant conditioning is a type of learning where the consequences of a behavior (rewards or punishments) influence the likelihood of that behavior happening again.

#Understanding Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning, spearheaded by B.F. Skinner, is all about how the consequences of our actions shape our future behavior. Unlike classical conditioning, which deals with automatic responses, operant conditioning focuses on voluntary behaviors.

Memory Aid

Think OPERAnt conditioning = OPERAting on the environment to produce a consequence.

#Key Concepts and Vocabulary

  • Reinforcement: Anything that increases the likelihood of a behavior happening again.

    • Positive Reinforcement (+): Adding something desirable (e.g., giving a treat after a dog sits).

Memory Aid

Positive reinforcement = adding something positive

* **Negative Reinforcement (-)**: *Removing* something aversive (e.g., taking away a headache by taking medicine). 
    <m...
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Question 1 of 12

Ready to test your knowledge? 🧠 Operant conditioning focuses on how our behavior is influenced by:

Involuntary, automatic responses

The consequences of our actions

Genetic predispositions

Unconscious desires