Stimulus-response theory identifies four events that can follow a behavior.
a. Describe each type of event and its effect on behavior.
b. Discuss how an exercise psychologist could use each type of event to increase exercise behavior at a university exercise facility. Be sure to give specific examples in your answer.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is a. The four events identified in stimulus-response theory are positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, punishment, and extinction.

- Positive reinforcement involves providing a reward or positive consequence following a behavior, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. For example, giving praise or a reward to a student who consistently attends exercise classes at the university facility can increase their likelihood of continuing to attend.

- Negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus following a behavior, which also increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. For example, if a student consistently attends exercise classes, they may be able to avoid a certain amount of homework or receive a later deadline for an assignment.

- Punishment involves providing a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. For example, if a student consistently skips exercise classes, they may be required to do extra work or receive a lower grade in a class.

- Extinction involves removing the reinforcement that was previously maintaining a behavior, which decreases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. For example, if a student was previously receiving praise for attending exercise classes, but that praise is no longer given, they may be less likely to continue attending.

b. An exercise psychologist could use each type of event to increase exercise behavior at a university exercise facility in the following ways:

- Positive reinforcement: The psychologist could implement a rewards program for students who attend a certain number of exercise classes, such as offering free gym merchandise or gift cards to those who consistently participate.

- Negative reinforcement: The psychologist could offer incentives for students to attend exercise classes, such as allowing them to skip a certain number of lectures or providing flexibility in assignment deadlines for consistent attendees.

- Punishment: The psychologist could implement consequences for students who consistently skip exercise classes, such as requiring them to attend additional sessions or assigning extra physical activity as a penalty.

- Extinction: The psychologist could gradually phase out certain rewards or incentives for attending exercise classes, encouraging students to attend for the intrinsic benefits of exercise rather than external rewards.

Stimulus-Response Theory Identifies Four Events That Can Follow a Behavior