The operant behavior in Skinner

Authors

  • Carlos Eduardo Costa
  • Roberto Alves Banaco

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18761/AB70CECRB

Keywords:

operant behavior, Skinner, selection by consequences, Behaviorism

Abstract

This article examines the concept of operant behavior based on Chapter 4 of About Behaviorism (Skinner, 1974), integrating this analysis with other key works by the author. Rather than summarizing the chapter, the text selects and explores central issues raised by Skinner, fostering a critical and expanded discussion about the topic. It addresses aspects such as the causes of behavior, the selectionist model of operant behavior, the evolutionary basis of sensitiv­ity to contingencies, the nature of reinforcers, and the role of feelings (emotions) in behavioral analysis. The article demonstrates how Skinner, in this chapter, consolidates a distinctive view of operant behavior while inviting reflection on its theoretical and practical implications.

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Published

2025-11-17

How to Cite

Costa, C. E., & Banaco, R. A. (2025). The operant behavior in Skinner. Perspectivas Em Análise Do Comportamento, 16(2), 059–073. https://doi.org/10.18761/AB70CECRB