An experimental acquisition of maladaptive behavior by shaping.
In an attempt to demonstrate possible maladaptive effects resulting from shaping, two Long Evans rats were trained to jump onto a platform, then to extend their noses downward over the edge to a point where, losing their balance, they fell. The results showed how behaviors such as reaching and rearing can be reinforced differentially to bring about completely maladaptive behavior.
Rasey
H W
HW
University of North Florida.
Iversen
I H
IH
D000818:Animals; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D003216:Conditioning, Operant; D005260:Female; D051381:Rats; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology