Question

Sixteen-year-old Michael has a 10 p.m. curfew but frequently comes home late, saying that all his friends are allowed to stay out later than he is. Saranne, Michael's mother, tells him that if he comes home on time every day for two months, she will add 30 minutes to his present curfew time, but that if he complains or continues to come home late, his curfew will be cut back to 9:30 p.m. Based on behavior theory, which of the following is the most likely consequence?

A) Michael will come home on time to gain the extra 30 minutes.
B) Michael will continue to come home late without any change in behavior.
C) Michael will complain but eventually adhere to the original curfew.
D) Michael will rebel against the imposed curfew, resulting in stricter consequences.

Answer 1

Behavior theory suggests that Michael is likely to adhere to the curfew to gain the additional 30 minutes, following the principle of positive reinforcement. The correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on behavior theory, the most likely consequence of Saranne setting a condition for Michael's curfew extension is option A) Michael will come home on time to gain the extra 30 minutes.

This outcome is supported by the concept of positive reinforcement, where a behavior is encouraged through a reward. In this case, the reward is an extended curfew.

Michael is more likely to be punctual to aquire the additional 30 minutes. The arrangement resembles a foot-in-the-door technique, starting with a small request before potentially leading to a larger one.

This technique often increases compliance with the larger request after the initial small request has been granted. Consistently returning home on time could set a precedent and pave the way for even more flexibility in the future. The correct option is A.