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Reinforcement Theory

🧠 Psychology By CampusDown Wiki Editorial Team Last updated
Quick answer: reinforcement theory says the consequences that follow a behaviour determine whether it is repeated: rewarded behaviour increases, while punished or ignored behaviour decreases.
Contents
  1. 1. Background
  2. 2. Four consequences
  3. 3. Schedules and applications
  4. 4. References

Background

Building on Thorndike's law of effect, Skinner systematised operant conditioning through experiments with the operant chamber. It is a behaviourist theory focused on observable behaviour and its consequences rather than inner needs.

Four consequences

  • Positive reinforcement: adding something pleasant increases behaviour (praise, bonuses).
  • Negative reinforcement: removing something unpleasant increases behaviour.
  • Punishment: adding something unpleasant or removing something pleasant decreases behaviour.
  • Extinction: withholding reinforcement makes behaviour fade.

Schedules and applications

Continuous reinforcement speeds learning but extinguishes quickly. Intermittent schedules are fixed ratio, variable ratio (slot machines), fixed interval (monthly pay) and variable interval (spot checks); variable ratio is most resistant to extinction. Uses include token economies, behaviour modification and OB Mod in workplaces. Critics say it neglects cognition and that extrinsic rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation.

References

  1. Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and Human Behavior. Macmillan.
  2. Ferster, C. B., & Skinner, B. F. (1957). Schedules of Reinforcement. Appleton-Century-Crofts.
  3. Luthans, F., & Kreitner, R. (1985). Organizational Behavior Modification and Beyond. Scott, Foresman.

Reports and materials that use this theory (Korean)

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This article was last updated on October 15, 2026. It is based on widely recognized original works and textbooks; when citing it in a paper, please check the original sources listed in the references.