Author Question: Why are Mr. Matherson's attempts to punish Becky not being effective? What will be an ideal ... (Read 51 times)

Pineapplelove6 · **on:** Jun 20, 2018

Why are Mr. Matherson's attempts to punish Becky not being effective?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Before Miss Hunter joins her in the classroom, Becky has difficulty getting the attention of her teacher and classmates. She soon learns that hitting and pinching her classmates gains that attention. Mr. Matherson tries to discourage this behavior by keeping her in from recess, shaking his head, and scolding her, but her aggressive behaviors increase rather than decrease. Looking at the situation as an instance of operant conditioning, you can reasonably conclude that Mr. Matherson's reactions to Becky's aggressive behavior are serving as which one of the following?

a. Punishment
b. Positive reinforcement
c. Negative reinforcement
d. Vicarious reinforcement

aburgess · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 20, 2018

Answer to Question 1

There are at least two possible explanations:
Being uncertain about what she is expected to do in this new environment, Becky craves her teacher's attention and guidance. In her eyes, any form of attention is better than none at all.
Becky is not aware of the contingencies between her behaviors and the consequences her teacher administers.

Answer to Question 2

b.