B.F. Skinner

The theory of B.F. Skinner is based upon the concept that learning is a change in behavior. Changes in behavior are the result of the individual's reaction to events, or stimuli, that take place in his surroundings. A response is followed by a consequence, for example, hitting a ball, or solving a math problem. When a Stimulus-Response pattern is rewarded, or reinforced, the individual is taught to respond. The unique characteristic of operant conditioning in comparison to past forms of behaviorism is that the individual can produce a response instead of only responding because of an outside stimuli.
A important component in Skinner‘s Stimulus-Response theory is reinforcement. A reinforcer is something that strengthens a desired response. It could be anything from verbal praise to a good grade, or a feeling of success. The theory also covers negative reinforcers. When negative reinforcement is used the occurrence of a response is more frequent because the reward is w...