Final answer:
Reinforcement following an alternative behavior is part of shaping in operant conditioning, where successive approximations of a desired behavior are reinforced. This can occur in variable or fixed ratio schedules of reinforcement, aiming to increase the likelihood of the behavior being repeated.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reinforcement following an alternative behavior other than the target behavior refers to the process of reinforcing a different but related behavior to encourage the learning of a specific desired behavior. This method is commonly utilized in operant conditioning, a form of learning where behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them. Within operant conditioning, reinforcing alternative behaviors can be seen as part of shaping, where successive approximations of a target behavior are reinforced. In operant conditioning, there are different schedules of reinforcement that affect learning. When reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses, it is known as a variable ratio schedule, which tends to produce a high and steady rate of response. This is different from a fixed ratio schedule where reinforcement is applied after a predictable number of responses, leading to a brief pause following the reinforcement. It's important to recognize that reinforcement can be positive (adding a desirable stimulus) or negative (taking away an undesirable stimulus). However, reinforcement always serves to increase the likelihood of the behavior being repeated. Conversely, punishment (positive or negative) is intended to decrease the likelihood of a behavior occurring in the future. Real-life examples include a teacher giving a student praise (positive reinforcement) for showing effort by attempting an alternative method to solve a problem rather than only reinforcing the correct answer.