Essay 1 Questions

 

 

 

Answer these questions in essay format.  Review the Essay 1 Grading Rubric to see how your essay will be graded.

 

 

 

1.      Use classical conditioning to produce consistently some startle response (reflex) in an unsuspecting friend at an abnormal signal (produces the reflex).  Start with your friend’s reflex response and a signal that will produce that reflex response; then choose another signal for the reflex.  Clearly label the UCS, UCR, CS, and CR.  You may write a description of the setting and process.

 

 

 

2.      Use operant conditioning, with a program of shaping, to get a sloppy roommate to make the bed neatly.  Include and label the antecedent stimulus, response, and reinforcement of the changing program standards, and a method of self-regulation for the roommate.

 

 

 

3.      In a Psychology internship, you have encountered a child with destructive tendencies.  She bites herself, her dog, and your bag of supplies.  Being afraid for her safety and your own well-being, you institute a plan to change her behavior.  Suggest a punishment, with her possible reactions.  Then, try substituting an alternative behavior by reinforcing an incompatible response.  Label the antecedent stimulus for the biting response, Punishment I or II, escape or avoidance, and the reinforcement for the new named response.  What do you consider to be the best theory or method for improving this child's behavior?

 

 

 

4.      Model more effective behavior for someone whom you could positively influence.  Name specific details of you (the model), the observer, the behavior, and the reinforcer, using at least five principles of Social Learning Theory