In: Biology
What is an example of a behavior that may require shaping? What role does differential reinforcement play in shaping this new behavior? Does punishment come into play in this process?
Shaping is a procedure used to establish a behaviour that is not presently performed by an individual.
Examples: learn to hit a tennis ball more accurately, language development, getting a rat to press a lever, animal training.
Differential reinforcement is important for shaping of a new behaviour. Differential reinforcement is used when a behaviour already occurs and has good form but tends to get lost among other behaviours. It helps in improving the behaviour.
Usually punishment doesn't come in this process but physical and mental stress may be caused.