Question

In 100 word Define and give an example of the following concepts: • terminal behavior • operant level • initial behavior • intermediate behaviors

Answer 1

Terminal behavior- it is the final behavior that has to be demonstrated by the learner at the end of ghe learning process. It is generally chosen as the goal of the intervention program when a particular behavior doesnt occur at the desired rate. Generally as the time of reinforcement comes closer the learner engages in activities close to this terminal behavior. Eg- in the operant conditioning experiment the rat achieving the food pallet by pressing the lever is the terminal behavior. As the reinforcement schedule approaches the rat oroents itself near the food lever.

Operant level- it is the strength of a response which gives nothing as a result of occuring. Strength is the measure of responses per minute at which the response is occuring. It is used to decide the punishment or reinforcement as if the response is below operant level then punishment has to be given but if it is above operant level then reinforcement has to be given. It is generally seen in normal conditions without any conditioning. Example the rate of lever pressing before the food pallet has been presented.

Initial behavior- it is the behavior which occurs initially after the reinforcement or the learning process. It helps in devidong if the reinforcement has to be positive or begative for achieving the desired response. It represents the terminal behavior. It occurs in a meaningful dimension and also occurs at a minimum frequency. Example - the movement towards the lever again and again. It is repeated for the reinforcement and strengthened to become the terminal behavior.

Intermediate behavior- intermediate behavior is the behavior after the initial behvior. It is more stronger thn the initial behavior and determines the terminal behavior. It is highly influences by the reinforcement and can be strengthened or weekened based on it. It signifies that the initial response is moving towards the terminal response. Example when the rat touches the lever or reaches it and tries to press it. After pressing the reinforcement will be given and pressing is the terminal response. Internediate behavior connects the initial and terminal behavior. It is the middle point of both.