Which term describes the process of gradually reinforcing successive approximations toward a target behavior?

• A. Shaping
• B. Generalization
• C. Extinction
• D. Modeling

Answer: (A)

Shaping is the process of gradually reinforcing successive approximations toward a target behavior. It works by reinforcing small steps that get closer and closer to the final goal, then only reinforcing the next closer step each time. Over time, the learner builds the complete behavior through a series of incremental improvements, with reinforcement guiding each step toward the target. This approach is especially useful for teaching complex or new skills that can’t be performed in one leap. Generalization happens when a behavior is emitted in new contexts or with new people; extinction is the reduction of a behavior when reinforcement stops; modeling is showing the behavior for the learner to imitate. Shaping specifically captures the idea of building up to the full target through reinforced approximations.