Abstract
A computational processing behavior-dynamic model was instantiated in the form of a computer program that "behaved" on the task developed by Nevin (1969). In this classic discrete-trials experiment, the relative frequency of choosing a response alternative matched the relative frequency of reinforcement for that alternative, the local structure of responding was opposite that predicted by momentary maximizing (i.e., the probability of a changeover decreased with run length), and absolute and relative response rates varied independently. The behavior-dynamic model developed here qualitatively reproduced these three results (but not in quantitative and specific detail) and also generated some interesting, as-yet-untested predictions about performance in Nevin's task. The model was discussed as an example of a stochastic behavior-dynamic alternative to algebraic behavior theory.
Full text
PDF
Selected References
These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.
- Kehoe E. J. Connectionist models of conditioning: A tutorial. J Exp Anal Behav. 1989 Nov;52(3):427–440. doi: 10.1901/jeab.1989.52-427. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Nevin J. A. Interval reinforcement of choice behavior in discrete trials. J Exp Anal Behav. 1969 Nov;12(6):875–885. doi: 10.1901/jeab.1969.12-875. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- doi: 10.1901/jeab.1989.51-163. [DOI] [PMC free article] [Google Scholar]
- Shimp C. P., Childers L. J., Hightower F. A. Local patterns in human operant behavior and a behaving model to interrelate animal and human performances. J Exp Psychol Anim Behav Process. 1990 Apr;16(2):200–212. doi: 10.1037/0097-7403.16.2.200. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Shimp C. P. Probabilistically reinforced choice behavior in pigeons. J Exp Anal Behav. 1966 Jul;9(4):443–455. doi: 10.1901/jeab.1966.9-443. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Wearden J. H., Burgess I. S. Matching since Baum (1979). J Exp Anal Behav. 1982 Nov;38(3):339–348. doi: 10.1901/jeab.1982.38-339. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Williams B. A. Enduring problems for molecular accounts of operant behavior. J Exp Psychol Anim Behav Process. 1990 Apr;16(2):213–221. doi: 10.1037/0097-7403.16.2.213. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]