behavior pattern

a complex arrangement of two or more responses that occur in a prescribed order. Behavior patterns are also referred to as chains of behavior, highlighting their nature as a complex linking of simpler segments of behavior. They may be formed via the operant conditioning of various segments presented in the appropriate order. Also called behavioral pattern.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

February 20th 2025

tickle experience

a sensation produced by impulses from adjacent skin receptors that are stimulated lightly in rapid succession. It is assumed that the receptors involved are also responsible for the sensations of itch and pain and that the method of stimulation accounts for the different sensations.