Shaping is a form of conditioning that leads subjects, often animals who are involved in experiments, to complete an operant behavior. This process is also known as “approximation conditioning.”
SHAPING definition: 1. present participle of shape 2. to decide or influence the form of something, especially a belief…. Learn more.
Shaping is a conditioning paradigm used primarily in the experimental analysis of behavior. The method used is differential reinforcement of successive approximations.
Shaping is a technique that involves rewarding successive approximations to a goal behavior and/or phasing out a target behavior deemed to be undesirable. When the person or animal exhibits a behavior that is similar to the goal behavior, it is rewarded.
Shaping is sometimes confused with chaining, another technique for teaching complex behaviors, but they work differently. Shaping refines a single behavior by gradually raising the standard for what gets reinforced.
Shaping is a conditioning technique that involves working toward a target behavior by breaking it down into gradual, successive steps and rewarding each step on the path toward the desired outcome. Psychologist B. F. Skinner introduced the concept as part of his operant conditioning theory.
To develop into a particular form or condition: This is shaping into one of the biggest scandals of the century.
Shaping in psychology is a powerful way to teach and learn behavior. Instead of expecting big changes all at once, shaping helps people grow step by step — with encouragement, rewards, and patience.