Any behaviour leading to the target behaviour is rewarded.
- Giving the bird food when it turns slightly in the direction of the spot – this increases the frequency of such behaviour
- Withhold reinforcement until a slight movement is made toward the spot
- By reinforcing a series of successive approximations, we bring a rare response to a very high probability in a short time
- Once the target is reached, however, no other behaviour is rewarded
- A complex behaviour is broken down into a series of simple behaviours
Application
- Used to treat selective/elective mutism, a condition manifested by an otherwise normal child’s refusal to speak in school
- Shaping in treating severe cases of autism in children
- More effective when speech attempts are reinforced than when speech production is expected
When unsuccessful efforts to produce speech are rewarded, the child feels inspired to make a greater effort, which may lead to actual speech