Nathan bites his hand frequently throughout the day. According to Skinner, the BEST way to solve this problem is to
A) explore experiences from Nathan's early childhood.
B) administer an IQ test to determine Nathan's cognitive potential.
C) determine how Nathan's expectations about success have led him to develop this behavior.
D) show disapproval responses whenever Nathan bites his hand, and provide encouragement when he refrains from doing so.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Skinner's behaviorist approach, behavior can be modified through reinforcement and punishment. By showing disapproval responses whenever Nathan bites his hand and providing encouragement when he refrains from doing so, Nathan will learn that biting his hand results in negative consequences and not biting his hand results in positive reinforcement. This is the most effective way to change behavior according to the behaviorist approach. The other options, exploring early childhood experiences and determining expectations about success, are not directly related to changing behavior in the present moment. Administering an IQ test may provide information about cognitive potential but it is not directly related to modifying behavior.

Nathan Bites His Hand Frequently Throughout the Day