Back to Table of Contents Another behavioral learning theory is Operant Conditioning. B.F. Skinner founded this theory that deals with voluntary behavior. This theory thinks of behavior as sandwiched between what are called antecedents and consequences. Together or separately antecedents and consequences can be applied for behavior modification. There are two types of consequences called reinforcement and punishment.
Reinforcement is anything that strengthens the behavior.
It can be positive or negative. Positive reinforcement is when the behavior is strengthened because a desired stimulus is presented, such as candy or a good grade. Negative reinforcement is the strengthening of a behavior by removing an unwanted stimulus or consequence. An example of this is having a movie day as a reward because it is taking away the aversive situation for the students of otherwise having to do homework. Reinforcement can follow a continuous schedule or an intermittent schedule.