Which term refers to operant learning where consequences influence the future probability of the same behavior?

• A. Operant Conditioning
• B. Classical Conditioning
• C. Observational Learning
• D. Stimulus Control

Answer: (A)

Operant conditioning is learning in which the consequences that follow a behavior change how likely that behavior is to happen again. When a behavior is followed by reinforcement, its future probability increases; when it’s followed by punishment or no reinforcement, that probability decreases. This emphasis on consequences shaping voluntary actions is why it’s the term for this type of learning. By contrast, classical conditioning involves forming associations between neutral and natural stimuli to produce automatic responses, not directly changing how often a voluntary behavior occurs based on its outcomes. Observational learning happens by watching others and modeling their actions, with the observer’s behavior shaped by the observed consequences to the model. Stimulus control refers to how a cue or context signals when a behavior will be reinforced, thereby increasing or decreasing its likelihood. For example, a rat pressing a lever to obtain food exemplifies operant conditioning, since the reinforcement strengthens the lever-press behavior.