functional operant

the class of responses whose probability is changed by the imposition of an operant contingency. For example, lever presses with a force greater than 0.2 N may be required for reinforcement. Presses with forces greater than 0.2 N will increase in frequency, as will the frequency of presses just (but not far) below that value. These latter presses are part of the functional operant class. Compare descriptive operant.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

holism

n. any approach or theory holding that a system or organism is a coherent, unified whole that cannot be fully explained in terms of individual parts or characteristics. The system or organism may have properties as a complete entity or phenomenon in addition to those of its parts. Thus, an analysis or understanding of the parts does not provide an understanding of the whole. —holistic adj.