Matching theory and induction explain operant performance

Matching theory is a general framework for understanding allocation of behavior among activities. It applies to choice in concurrent schedules and was extended to single schedules by assuming that other unrecorded behavior competes with operant behavior. Baum and Davison (2014) found that the competing activities apparently are induced by the “reinforcers” (phylogenetically important events, e.g., food) according to power functions. Combined with power-function induction, matching theory provides new equations with greater explanatory power. Four pigeons were exposed to conditions in which 7 different schedules of food delivery were presented within each experimental session. We replicated earlier results with variable-interval schedules: (a) a negatively accelerated increase of peck rate as food rate increased in the low range of food rates; (b) an upturn in pecking at higher rates; and (c) a downturn in pecking at extremely high food rates. When the contingency between pecking and food was removed, the food continued to induce pecking, even after 20 sessions with no contingency. A ratio schedule inserted in place of 1 variable-interval schedule maintained peck rates comparable to peck rates maintained by short interval schedules. We explained the results by fitting equations that combined matching theory, competition, and induction.     

Maternal Treatment Acceptability and Preference of Room Time-Out and Deferred Time-Out Escape Contingencies

ABSTRACT

Maternal preference and acceptability were examined for two methods of addressing time-out escape behavior: room time-out (RTO) and deferred time-out (DTO). With respect to preference, mothers were split about evenly. Spanking frequency and previous effectiveness using privilege removal were associated with preference for DTO while previous effectiveness using RTO was associated with preference for RTO. Child age was negatively associated with acceptability for either treatment and lax parenting style was negatively associated with acceptability for DTO. Results suggest that DTO could provide an alternative escape contingency for mothers who spank their children or who have been unsuccessful using RTO.     

THE EMOTIONS IN THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY

In this paper I argue that Kierkegaard's theory of change is motivated by a robust notion of contingency. His view of contingency is sharply juxtaposed with a strong notion of absolute necessity. I show that how he understands these notions explains certain ambiguous claims he makes about causation. I attempt to provide a coherent interpretation of his view of causality that is consistent with both human choice and the causal sequence of change. I end by suggesting a compatibilist interpretation of Kierkegaard's philosophy.     

Age differences in instability, contingency, and level of self-esteem across the life span

We investigated age differences in instability, contingency, and level of self-esteem from age 13 to 72 years, using data from 1386 individuals who participated in a diary study over 25 days. Instability and contingency of self-esteem decreased from adolescence to old age, whereas level of self-esteem increased. Big Five personality traits predicted the level, but not the slope, of the trajectories of self-esteem characteristics. Age differences in self-esteem characteristics did not merely reflect age differences in instability and level of positive and negative affect. Finally, self-esteem characteristics showed a stable pattern of interrelations across the life span. Overall, the findings suggest that people’s self-esteem tends to become better adjusted—i.e., more stable, less contingent, and higher—across the life course.     

A combination of Raspberry Pi and SoftEther VPN for controlling research devices via the Internet

Remote control over devices for experiments may increase the efficiency of operant research and expand the area where behavior can be studied. This article introduces a combination of Raspberry Pi^® (Pi) and SoftEther VPN^® that allows for such remote control via the Internet. The Pi is a small Linux computer with a great degree of flexibility for customization. Test results indicate that a Pi‐based interface meets the requirement for conducting operant research. SoftEther VPN^® allows for establishing an extensive private network on the Internet using a single private Wi‐Fi router. Step‐by‐step instructions are provided in the present article for setting up the Pi along with SoftEther VPN^®. Their potential for improving the way of conducting research is discussed.     

NOTES ON THE ALLEGED CONFLICT BETWEEN RELIGION AND SCIENCE

Abstract. I interpret several key events in the history of the relationship between Christianity and science and conclude that there is no reason for assuming a fundamental conflict between science and religion. Christian theologians should feel confident in using the science of our day to retell the story of God's creation of the world.     

《周易》之组织心理思想初探

《周易》中蕴涵着丰富的管理心理思想。文章主要从《周易》的权变观、生命周期观和《周易》对组织文化建设的启示来挖掘其组织心理思想。在论述生命周期观时,对屯卦的创业管理思想和革卦的组织变革思想进行了具体论述。从刚柔并济、居安思危和义利合一三个方面论述了《周易》对组织文化建设的启示。