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Chapter 14: Problem 6

According to Skinner, emotion is a predisposition to behave in certain ways that is caused by some external event (such as anger over a drawer that is stuck). Can an emotion such as anger be caused by an event within the individual?

Short Answer

Expert verified
From Skinner's behaviorist perspective, emotions like anger are responses to external stimuli and even internal triggers could be viewed as conditioned by prior external stimuli. However, different psychological perspectives may argue that internal events can directly trigger emotions.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Skinner's View on Emotions

B.F. Skinner was a behaviorist who believed that all behaviors, including emotions, are responses to external stimuli. In this instance, anger is a reaction to a stuck drawer.
02

Defining Emotion as a Predisposition to Behave

When emotion is considered as a predisposition to behave, it means that emotions prepare or predispose us to respond in certain ways to certain events. For example, the emotion of anger can predispose someone to behave aggressively.
03

Considering Internal Triggers for Emotion

Applying these concepts, it is possible to consider whether internal events could trigger such responses. Internal events can be thoughts, memories, or physiological changes. As per Skinner's behaviorist view, it can be argued that these internal events are also conditioned responses to prior external stimuli. However, others in the field of psychology may argue that emotions can indeed be triggered by purely internal events. For example, a memory (internal event) can elicit an emotional response.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Rats in a Skinner box learn by what is called "trial and error": They try out various responses (e.g., rearing up on their hind paws, crouching, moving to the rear of the box) until they hit on the one that produces reinforcement (pressing the bar). Why do some critics regard Skinner's approach as not applicable to many areas of human endeavor?

(a) Explain the difference between classical conditioning and operant conditioning. (b) Explain the difference between negative reinforcement and punishment. (c) Explain the difference between Freud's concept of repression and Skinner's view of repression.

Skinner argues that operant conditioning is an unselfish and benign form of behavior control, because others must be assured of reinforcement. Yet some critics contend that his ideas represent a serious threat to individual freedom. Which view do you prefer? Why?

A terrorist blows up a building in a hated foreign country. How might Skinner explain the terrorist's behavior?

Give some examples of poorly designed contingencies of reinforcement that are common in our society.
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