Bill’s behaviors in Ms. Kennedy’s class are really distracting to other students. For example, he whispers to the boy beside him when Ms. Kennedy is giving directions on how to do any assignment. He flings paper clips at a girl across the room. He makes strange grunting noises that a few classmates find amusing. Ms. Kennedy glares at him or admonishes him whenever he behaves in a distracting way, yet his inappropriate behaviors are increasing rather than decreasing. Which one of the following interpretations of this situation best explains why Bill’s behaviors are increasing?

Behaviorism is a theory that states that all behaviors are determined by external stimuli in the environment. It focuses on the role of environmental stimuli in learning and the behavior, or observable response.  Here are some principles of behaviorism: Behavior is a function of the environment. Behavior is learned through conditioning. Consequences that reinforce the desired behavior are arranged to follow the desired behavior. The new behavioral pattern can be repeated so it becomes automatic. The change in behavior of the learner signifies that learning has occurred.    Behaviorism... Show more

Behaviorism is a theory that states that all behaviors are determined by external stimuli in the environment. It focuses on the role of environmental stimuli in learning and the behavior, or observable response. 

Here are some principles of behaviorism:
Behavior is a function of the environment.
Behavior is learned through conditioning.
Consequences that reinforce the desired behavior are arranged to follow the desired behavior.
The new behavioral pattern can be repeated so it becomes automatic.
The change in behavior of the learner signifies that learning has occurred. 
 

Behaviorism is based on the following theories: contiguity, classical and operant conditioning, applied behavior analysis, social learning theory, and self-regulation/cognitive behavior modification. 
Behaviorism can be applied in the classroom through techniques such as: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and modeling. 

For example, a teacher might reward a class or certain students with a party or special treat at the end of the week for good behavior throughout the week. The same concept can be used with punishments, where the teacher can take away certain privileges if the student misbehaves. 
Behaviorism has led to research on environmental influences on human behavior. Behavioral principles are commonly applied in behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapy to create powerful changes in one's behavior. 

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