Which of the following is the best example of operant conditioning?
A) You notice that many of your classmates are comfortable speaking with professors after class. Even though you are usually shy, you therefore decide that you will try to speak with professors after class too.
B) Every time you wear the poncho you purchased in Mexico, you think fondly about the time that you spent there.
C) You ask for an extension on a paper that is due for class, your teacher says yes, and you still end up with a really good grade. This leads you to ask other teachers for extensions as well.
D) After going to the same dentist for many years, you develop a fondness for your dentist and for the other people who work in her office.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choice C is the best example of operant conditioning because it involves a behavior (asking for an extension) that is reinforced by a positive outcome (getting a good grade). The positive outcome leads to an increased likelihood of the behavior being repeated in the future. This is a classic example of positive reinforcement, one of the key concepts of operant conditioning. The other choices do not involve behaviors being reinforced or punished in this way.

Which of the Following Is the Best Example of Operant