My mom often complains about constantly driving from one place to another for my sister, as she does not have her license yet. Sometimes she asks me to do it but my response usually consists of some form of "no sorry". I either have too much going on in my own life or honestly I am just too lazy go drive Victoria around. However, recently she will offer me money, letting me know that I can stop and get whatever food I want on the way. I did not realize this tactic of hers at first until I read this article regarding operant conditioning. As I look back, I have begun to take the bate and drive my sister much more than before, as I know look forward to picking up smoothies or chipotle on my way. By offering positive reinforcement to me for driving around for my mom, she has almost trained me to do what she wants without me even realizing this. This correlates directly with the article regarding the woman who molded her husband based on adoration for his good behavior.
Although I did not realize this conditioning that was occurring to me until now, I have learned a lot about how humans can be conditioned. Without m realization, I adapted to my mom's rewards, thus sculpting me to complete the tasks she requested. The fact that I unconsciously adapted proves the extremity to which people can be altered based on different stimulations, especially operant conditioning. Humans and animals both like to be rewarded for good behavior and it works well when trying to teach them to respond a particular way.
Caroline,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great example of positive reinforcement as it allows freedom and gets the job done. I especially find it relatable to everyone who drives, or has driven, a sibling. I get the same requests from my mom, although I rarely have room to object. I'm beginning to develop a theory that mothers know the best ways to manipulate husbands and children to do better.
Caroline,
ReplyDeleteYour example of positive reinforcement was great because it was composed of all the details required to assert that it was actually postive reinforcement. In addition, I can relate to this because my older brother was in the same situation when he was younger.
Caroline,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your blog. It gives a great example of positive reinforcement. What is so great about positive reinforcement is that it is a win-win situation. Your mother does not have to drive your sister and argue with you over it, you receive a treat (and honestly at this point in our senior year, a break from all of our work), and your sister get to go where she needs to go! so actually, it's a triple-win situation.