OPERANT LEARNING

B.F. Skinner is the most prominent person in operant conditioning

Conditioning that takes place in response to the application or withdrawal of rewards and punishments.

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Stimulus that increases the probability that a behavior will occur.

* Praise

* Recognition

* Grades

* Money

NEGATIVE REINFORCEMENT

Removal of an unpleasant stimulus

* Performing at a certain level to avoid harsh comments from

the coach

PUNISHMENT

Delivery of an aversive stimulus to decrease a behavior

* Corporal punishment

* Running for punishment

OMMISSION TRAINING

Loss of a scheduled reward

* Taking away a privilege

Operant techniques in sports

* Public recordings

* Token system

* Opportunity to engage in a preferred activity

REFERENCES

LeUnes, A., and Nation, J (2002) Sport Psychology, 3^rd ed. Pacific Grove, CA: Wadsworth Group.