Ursula Is Always Getting Out of Her Seat at Inappropriate

question 41

Essay

Ursula is always getting out of her seat at inappropriate times. As her teacher, you scold Ursula every time she does this, but her behavior seems to be getting worse rather than better.
a. From a behaviorist perspective, why is Ursula's getting-out-of-seat behavior increasing rather than decreasing?
b. How might you decrease her behavior by reinforcing an incompatible behavior? Describe your procedure in detail, specifying the reinforcer and the behavior you will reinforce.

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Definitions:

Lifespan

The maximum duration of life that an organism can theoretically achieve under optimal conditions.

Role Confusion

A situation in which an individual is uncertain about the expectations of their societal or personal role, often in Erikson's theory of psychosocial development.

Adolescence

The developmental stage that begins at puberty and encompasses the period from the end of childhood to the beginning of adulthood.

Inferiority Complex

A psychological condition that arises from feelings of inadequacy, often leading to overcompensation in other areas.