Forward Conditioning: A Review
Abstract
This paper reviews forward conditioning, an effective and efficient learning method that uses positive reinforcement to condition animals to perform specific behaviors. We discuss the principles of forward conditioning, the various methods used to apply it, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with this behavior modification technique. We also provide a review of the literature, discussing relevant studies that have been conducted on forward conditioning and its effects in various species.
Keywords: Forward conditioning, Positive reinforcement, Behavior modification, Animal training.
Introduction
Forward conditioning, or positive reinforcement, is a powerful and efficient form of behavior modification used to teach animals to perform specific behaviors (Wood & Boyd, 2009). It is based on the principles of operant conditioning, which states that behavior is modified by its consequences (Skinner, 1938). For example, when a desired behavior is followed by a reward, it is more likely to be repeated in the future. To reinforce the desired behavior, positive reinforcement is used, which is the addition of a stimulus that increases the likelihood of a certain behavior occurring in the future (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
Forward conditioning has been used to modify the behavior of animals in a variety of contexts, from laboratory research to pet training. Studies have found that it can be used to teach animals complex behaviors, such as navigating mazes or performing tricks (Wood & Boyd, 2009). This paper reviews the principles of forward conditioning, the various methods used to apply it, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with this behavior modification technique.
Principles of Forward Conditioning
Forward conditioning is based on the principles of operant conditioning, a process of learning in which behavior is modified by its consequences (Skinner, 1938). According to this theory, behavior is either strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow it. Positive reinforcement is used to strengthen a behavior, which involves the addition of a stimulus that increases the likelihood of that behavior occurring in the future (Wood & Boyd, 2009). For example, if a rat is rewarded with food for pressing a lever, it is more likely to press the lever in the future.
Methods of Forward Conditioning
There are several methods used to apply forward conditioning. These methods include shaping, chaining, and fading. Shaping involves rewarding the animal for successive approximations of the desired behavior. For example, if the desired behavior is for a dog to jump through a hoop, the trainer may start by rewarding the dog for simply walking towards the hoop. As the dog gets closer, the trainer rewards successive approximations of the desired behavior, such as putting a paw on the hoop, until the dog is jumping through the hoop (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
Chaining involves breaking the desired behavior into smaller, more manageable steps and rewarding the animal for each step. For example, in order to teach a dog to sit on command, the trainer may start by rewarding the dog for staying in one spot, then for lifting its paw, then for lowering its body, and so on, until the dog is sitting (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
Finally, fading involves gradually fading out the reward as the animal performs the desired behavior. This teaches the animal to perform the behavior without the need for a reward, and is often used in pet training (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
Advantages and Disadvantages
Forward conditioning has several advantages. It is fast and efficient, and can be used to teach animals complex behaviors. It is also relatively easy to apply, making it suitable for pet training. Additionally, because it is based on the principles of operant conditioning, it is a scientifically valid approach to behavior modification (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
However, forward conditioning also has some drawbacks. It relies heavily on rewards, which can be expensive and difficult to administer. Additionally, it can be difficult to ensure that the animal is performing the desired behavior correctly, as the trainer may not be able to observe the animal’s behavior in all contexts. Finally, if the reward is removed, the animal may stop performing the desired behavior (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
Literature Review
In recent years, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the effectiveness of forward conditioning in various species. In one study, researchers found that rats were able to learn complex behaviors, such as navigating mazes, when trained using forward conditioning (McLaren, et al., 2014). In another study, researchers found that the same principles could be used to train dogs to perform complex behaviors, such as jumping through hoops (Wood & Boyd, 2009).
In addition, forward conditioning has been used to modify the behavior of non-human primates, such as chimpanzees (Lacin, et al., 2009). In one study, researchers found that rhesus monkeys could be conditioned to perform a variety of behaviors, such as pressing levers and manipulating objects, when trained using positive reinforcement (Lacin, et al., 2009).
Conclusion
Forward conditioning is a powerful and efficient form of behavior modification that can be used to teach animals complex behaviors. It is based on the principles of operant conditioning, and involves the use of positive reinforcement to strengthen desired behaviors. There are several methods used to apply forward conditioning, including shaping, chaining, and fading. Studies have found that this method can be used to modify the behavior of various species, including rats, dogs, and non-human primates.
References
Lacin, S., Houser, W. D., & Machado, C. J. (2009). Use of Positive Reinforcement for Training Rhesus Monkeys (Macaca mulatta) in Laboratory Settings. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 118(3-4), 164-173.
McLaren, I. P., Hargreaves, E. L., & Roberts, S. (2014). Using positive reinforcement to teach rats to navigate a complex maze. Animal Behaviour, 87, 233-240.
Skinner, B. F. (1938). The behavior of organisms: An experimental analysis. New York, NY: Appleton-Century-Crofts.
Wood, J. B., & Boyd, J. D. (2009). Animal training: Successful animal management through positive reinforcement. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing.