You go to a therapist because you are having trouble finishing your school work. Your therapist suggests that you gradually increase your study time by five minutes per evening. In addition, after each hour of studying, you are told to reward yourself with a five-minute rest. Your therapist is using the operant conditioning method of

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The therapist is using the operant conditioning technique called successive approximations, also known as shaping. This method involves breaking down a complex behavior (in this case, studying for an extended period) into smaller, more manageable steps, and reinforcing each step until the desired behavior is achieved. Gradually increasing study time by five minutes per evening is an example of shaping, as it encourages the individual to slowly build up their ability to focus for longer periods of time.

You Go to a Therapist Because You Are Having Trouble