PSYB45H3 Chapter 1: PSYB45 Chapter 1 Detailed notes
16 Feb 2012
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Document Summary
Defining human behavior: human behavior is subject matter of behavior modification, characteristics person. Involves altering environmental events so as to influence behavior. Behavior modification procedures are developed by professionals and used to change socially significant behaviors, with goal of improving some aspect of person"s life. Ivan pavlov: conducted experiments that uncovered basic processes of respondent conditioning, demonstrated that a reflex (salivation in response to food) could be conditioned to neutral stimulus, conditioned reflex. To open door, cat had to hit lever. Showed that cat learned to hit lever and open cage door. Each time it was put into cage, cat hit lever more quickly because behavior produced favourable effect on environment. In 1950s, researchers began demonstrating behavioral principles and evaluating behavior mod procedures with people. Early researchers studied behavior of children, adults, patients with mental illness and individuals with mental retardation. Major publications and events: number of books heavily influenced development of behavior mod field.
