Definitions
Generalization and discrimination may be considered
opposites sides of the same coin.
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Discrimination occurs when behavior
occurs only in the presence of specific discriminative stimuli.
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Generalization occurs when stimuli
similar to the discriminative stimulus evoke an operant response.
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A discriminative stimulus sets the occasion
for responding because, in the past, responding in the presence of the
discriminative stimulus has been reinforced.
Instructions
Below are 4 everyday situations in which some
form of operant behavior is occurring. After reading each scenario, indicate
whether it is an instance of generalization or discrimination.
Situation 1:
We stop our vehicles when the
traffic light is red, but continue through the light when it is green.
Situation 2:
We sit quietly in our seats during
class examinations, church services, theatrical presentations, and funerals.
Situation 3:
We raise our hands before speaking
in class but not while talking to a friend or while at a party.
Situation 4:
We put our feet up on our desk
and coffee table at home, but not on our grandparents' coffee table.
Situation 5:
We mistake a stranger for a friend
of ours.
Situation 6:
We answer the doorbell when it
was really the phone that was ringing.
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