In reinforcement principles, what does the term “shaping” refer to?

The term "shaping" refers to the process of developing new behaviors incrementally through reinforcement. This technique involves reinforcing successive approximations of the desired behavior until the target behavior is achieved. For example, if a trainer wants a dog to roll over, they might first reinforce the dog for lying down, then for lying on its side, and finally for fully rolling over. By systematically rewarding closer approximations to the final behavior, shaping effectively builds complex behaviors in a step-by-step manner.

Shaping is a critical concept in behavior modification as it allows for the gradual acquisition of new skills, making it easier for both the learner and the instructor to work towards specific behavioral goals.