Some bears kept in the zoo allow veterinarians to routinely give them total body checkups.These bears open their mouths for teeth cleaning and present their paws for nail clipping.Your friend wonders how anyone could ever get these dangerous animals to be so cooperative without anesthesia.You,however,a psychology student,quickly surmise that the bears had undergone _____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The bears have likely undergone operant conditioning, in which they have learned that certain behaviors (such as presenting their paws for nail clipping) result in a reward (such as treats or positive reinforcement from their handlers). Over time, consistent positive reinforcement has trained the bears to repeat these behaviors willingly, without the need for anesthesia.

Some Bears Kept in the Zoo Allow Veterinarians to Routinely