Question

Shelby rarely interacts with her peers. She is obviously quite lonely but apparently has no confidence in her ability to make friends. Using a behaviorist perspective, describe how you might help Shelby develop social skills through shaping. In your discussion, be sure to include:
a.    The specific behavior(s) you would shape
b.    A specific reinforcer you might use, and why you make the choice you do
c.    The sequence of steps you might take as you shape the desired behavior

Answer 1

a) As the main issue reported about Shelby is her problem to interact with peers, the specific behaviours of her that l would like to shape are Initiating a conversation and active communication.

b) I would make her gradually talk to me at first and I will reinforce her with smile, praises and eye contact. I will also rephrase her statements at times and will show an interest at her words to show her that I am interested in interacting with her. These things will serve as the reinforcement as these will make her feel good about her interactive and communication style and she will gradually repeat them. Thus, she will learn that interaction with others is not that dangerous. Later on I will let her initiate conversations with me and with others (peers choosen and instructed to be natural and appreciative) and when the peers will also show an interest towards her, her behaviours will get shaped through reinforcement and her attitude towards interaction will change.

c) The basic sequence will be:

Speak to her about her issues in a non-judgmental and empathetic manner - make her comfortable - teach her some basic communication skills - make her continue the conversation - reinforce her through smile and active listening skills during the conversation - reinforce her with praises for conversing after the conversation - continue the sequence with other peers and helping her in initiating conversation by her own.