Successive Approximations in AP Psychology

Definition

Successive approximations refer to the gradual steps taken towards achieving a desired behavior, where each step is rewarded until the final behavior is reached.

Related terms

Shaping:

Shaping involves reinforcing behaviors that are increasingly similar to the desired behavior in order to guide an individual towards achieving that desired behavior.

Operant Conditioning:

Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behaviors are strengthened or weakened by consequences, such as rewards or punishments.

Reinforcement:

Reinforcement refers to any stimulus or event that increases the likelihood of a specific behavior occurring again in the future.