Analyzing the Reinforcement Process at the Human Level: Can Application and Behavioristic Interpretation Replace Laboratory Research?

摘要: Critics have questioned the value of human operant conditioning experiments in study fundamental processes reinforcement. Contradictory results from and animal been attributed to complex social verbal history subject. On these grounds, it has contended that procedures mimic those conventionally used with subjects represent a “poor analytic preparation” for explication reinforcement principles. In defending use conventional methods research, we make three points: (a) Historical variables play critical role research on reinforcement, regardless whether are humans or animals. (b) Techniques available detecting, analyzing, counteracting such historical extra-experimental influences; include long-term observations, steady state designs, and, when not amenable direct control (e.g., age, gender, species), selection common characteristics. (c) Other forms evidence might be validate principles—applied behavior analysis behavioristic interpretation—have inherent limitations cannot substitute experimental analysis. We conclude essential process at level, but caution their depends extent which traditional properly applied.