key term - Chaining

Definition

Chaining is a behavioral psychology term that refers to the process of linking together individual behaviors into a sequence or chain. Each behavior in the chain serves as both an end result of the previous behavior and the cue for the next one.

Related terms

Operant Conditioning:

A learning method through which behavior is conditioned by its consequences; either rewards or punishments.

Shaping:

A method used in teaching a new behavior by reinforcing closer and closer approximations to the desired behavior.

Sequential Learning: The process of learning different orders, sequences or series.