Principles

Definition

Principles refer to fundamental concepts or theories that guide the understanding and application of a specific field, such as psychology. In the context of operant conditioning, principles are the foundational ideas that inform how psychologists use this behavioral learning theory.

Related terms

Reinforcement:

The act of providing a stimulus (reward) to increase the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.

Punishment:

The act of applying negative consequences to decrease or suppress unwanted behaviors.

Extinction:

The gradual disappearance or weakening of a learned behavior when reinforcement is no longer provided.