The text describes psychologist B. F. Skinner's study of how pigeons began bobbing their heads and twirling around in the "Skinner box" before they received a food reward. This study led Skinner to explain the acquisition of superstitions in terms of:
A) "after this, therefore because of this" reasoning.
B) motivational theory and reward.
C) operant conditioning and learning theory.
D) classically conditioned responses that reduced stress.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Skinner's study and explanation of the acquisition of superstitions is based on operant conditioning and learning theory. Skinner believed that the pigeons' superstitious behaviors were the result of accidental reinforcement, where they associated specific actions or behaviors with receiving a food reward. This theory is based on operant conditioning, which involves linking a certain behavior with a consequence, either positive or negative, to influence future behavior.

The Text Describes Psychologist B