In this article we address the issue of applying operant psychology to derive plausible and useful interpretations of complex firm behavior in natural settings. The objective is to discuss an appropriate methodology based on case study design, developed specifically in Vella and Foxall (2011), to produce an operant interpretation of secondary…

Study investigated the effects of a response-produced intense-noise stimulus (punishment) on the extinction of children's hitting behavior. (Author)

Although past experience may operate to produce an initial increase in undesired behaviors during behavior modification procedures, the data of the present study demonstrate that these behaviors will decrease if the model is not abandoned at the point when the behavior appears to be getting worse rather than better. (Authors)

Major findings were that: contingent reinforcement was effective in altering behavior; instructions did not augment the efficacy of contingent reinforcement; noncontingent reinforcement was effective for nondeviant students who were told that the reinforcement was actually contingent; and contingent reinforcement led to greater generalization than…

Three experiments were conducted in which a school principal implemented behavior modification programs with elementary school children. The behaviors dealt with were tardiness, absenteeism, and disruptions. (Author)

Prediction was not supported that responses followed by positive or negative social consequences would immediately be repeated or changed, respectively. (Author/MB)

An investigation of immediate and delayed vicarious reinforcements upon children's imitative self-sacrificing behavior. (Author/MB)

Two hundred seventh grade Ss were administered a paired comparison scale for the purpose of predicting reinforcer effectiveness of fifteen stimuli. (Authors)

Findings indicate that infant boys may be more easily conditioned by visual reinforcement than are girls. (Author/MB)

The use of mathematical models in the experimental analysis of behavior has increased over the years, and they offer several advantages. Mathematical models require theorists to be precise and unambiguous, often allowing comparisons of competing theories that sound similar when stated in words. Sometimes different mathematical models may make…