Nine-year-old Kristen spends her summer days pretty much however she wants. On most days she reads for 1 hour, plays outside for 2 hours, and watches TV for 3 hours. Today, however, she has read for 2 hours, played outside for 1 hour, and watched TV for 4 hours. According to the disequilibrium principle, which of the three would be the strongest reinforcer for her right now?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The disequilibrium principle suggests that activities become more reinforcing if they are less frequent than usual. Since Kristen played outside less today than she typically does, playing outside would be the strongest reinforcer.

Nine-Year-Old Kristen Spends Her Summer Days Pretty Much However She