Question

After reading about Classical Conditioning, Operant Conditioning and observational learning use the information to explain what you learned and how you can apply each of these principles to the following situation.  

Distracted driving is a serious problem on our roadways. After reading the chapter on Learning explain how you could use the information to change drivers' behavior. Give specific examples of how you might use (a) positive reinforcement, (b) negative reinforcement, (c) positive punishment, and (d) negative punishment to bring about desirable changes in the behavior of distracted drivers.

In order to receive full credit, your post must be detailed and show that you understand the psychological principles. Posts should show that you read and understood the material.

Answer 1

Applying learning principles to reduce distractions during driving:

a) Positive reinforcement: Drivers with a good driving record may be given vouchers every month which can be exchanged for a gift.

b) Negativity reinforcement: Everytime a traffic police man observes a driver being distracted on the road (eg, using his/her cell phone) a heavy fine can be imposed. This can act both as a negative reinforcement and a positive punishment. Intially, when the driver gets caught for the first time it acts like a positive punishment which reduces the likelihood that the driver would use his/her phone again. It also acts like a negative reinforcer has the driver would avoid using his phone and drive without distractions to avoid being fined.

c) Negative punishment: Everytime a driver is distracted, his/her license can be taken away.