Amanda was trying to train her dog to sit using operant conditioning. Every time her dog sat, she immediately said "good dog." However, the dog did not sit on command. Which of the following is the best explanation for this?
A) Amanda should have delayed reinforcement.
B) The CS did not match the CR.
C) Amanda used inconsistent reinforcement.
D) Saying "good dog" was not reinforcing to her dog.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Saying "good dog" might not have been reinforcing to her dog because reinforcement depends on the individual's preferences. If the dog does not find the verbal praise rewarding, it will not increase the likelihood of the behavior (sitting) occurring in the future. Reinforcement must be something the dog finds motivating or rewarding for operant conditioning to be effective.

Amanda Was Trying to Train Her Dog to Sit Using