Chaining
Chaining (Engl. For chaining ) is a concept of instrumental conditioning , a behaviorist learning theory . It describes the step-by-step learning of a complex new behavior by linking simpler parts. Chaining techniques are used in behavior therapy , but also in animal training.
The target behavior is broken down into individual sections and these are practiced individually until they have been fully learned. As with threading pearls, the sequences already learned serve as the basis for the complex sequence of individual behavioral steps. You can start with the first sub-step and gradually lengthen it ( forward chaining ) or you can start with the last sub-step, adding the penultimate sub-step, etc. ( backward chaining ).
In behavior therapy one speaks of chaining in the narrower sense only for backward chaining . Forward chaining, i.e. learning the sequence from the first to the last step, is called shaping here .
Example of forward chaining
For example, if a circus tiger is supposed to learn to jump through a burning hoop, the trainer first lures him with food (a so-called "primary amplifier ") to jump onto the starting platform on command. If you have mastered this first step, you can jump from this pedestal to a second. The jump to the first podium is no longer reinforced , only the now two-part sequence. Third, there is the jump from the first to the second podium through a non-burning tire. Again, only the entire sequence is amplified; if the tiger jumps past the tire, there is no reward. Finally, you add the jump from the starting platform through the burning tire to the landing platform.
Thus, every successful behavior sequence serves as a positive reinforcement, while an unsuccessful behavior sequence is the reason to practice the later target behavior several times in a row until the individual has learned and shows the desired behavior. This is achieved through the positive punishment, repeated practice. Negative reinforcers such as the absence of practicing instead strengthen the individual in his behavior and strengthen it.
Example of backward chaining
The desired behaviors are broken down into several parts. A helper takes care of all the links except the last one. This is done by the learner and reinforced by the assistant.
For example, if a child is to learn to zip up a jacket, the educator first closes the zip completely. Then he leaves two inches open and helps the child close this section. As soon as the child can do this independently, it is praised. In the next step, the zipper is left a little wider and the same procedure as in the previous step. After all, it is only praised when the child can close the entire zip on their own.
See also
literature
- James E. Mazur: Learning and Behavior . Pearson Verlag, 6th edition 2006, ISBN 978-3827372185
- Anil Batra, Gerhard Buchkremer, Reinhard Wassmann: Behavioral Therapy: Basics - Methods - Areas of Application . Georg Thieme Verlag, 4th edition 2012, ISBN 978-3131549747