In the basement of Marcy’s college dormitory is a Coke machine that dispenses a can of Coke whenever someone firmly pounds the side of the machine. Marcy is delighted when she discovers this fact, because she can now get Cokes from the machine without having to pay for them. One morning a repairman fixes the machine. The next time Marcy goes to get a soft drink from the machine, she finds that her usual pounding strategy doesn’t yield her the Coke she wants. But rather than insert the required coins to purchase a drink, Marcy begins pounding the side of the machine vigorously for several minutes. In behaviorist terminology, Marcy’s behavior at this point can best be described as:

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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