Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An aversive conditioning program is a psychological technique that aims to change behavior by pairing an undesirable stimulus with a specific behavior, resulting in the individual associating the behavior with discomfort or negative consequences.
Punishment refers to any consequence or event that decreases the likelihood of a particular behavior occurring again. In the context of aversive conditioning, punishment can be applied as part of the program to discourage unwanted behaviors.
Operant conditioning is a learning process where behaviors are strengthened or weakened based on their consequences. Aversive conditioning programs often utilize operant conditioning principles to modify behaviors.
Ethical guidelines outline professional standards and principles for psychologists' conduct. Violating ethical guidelines, such as using excessive physical discomfort in an aversive conditioning program, can have serious implications for psychologists' practices and patient well-being.