Operant Learning Theory and Differential Reinforcement Theory

Operant learning theory, created by psychologist B.F. Skinner, states that behaviour, if rewarded, is likely to continue and if punished is likely to stop.

This theory is supported by Skinner's study done on rats in which he taught the rats to push a lever to be given a sugar pellet by rewarding the rat over time for becoming closer to and, in time, pushing the lever. Rats learned to push the lever at varied rates but all of them learned.

Skinner argues that all behaviours are the result of reinforcements and punishments. If so, then this must explain criminal behaviour too (e.g. Jeffrey’s differential reinforcement theory).

Jeffrey argues that criminal behaviour is learned through the reinforcement of particular behaviours. If crime has more rewarding consequences than punishing ones for an individual, they will be more likely to engage in criminal behaviour. These rewards could be financial, but also emotional (e.g. friendship or the respect of peers).

If we wish to explain an individual’s offending behaviour, it might be appropriate to look at the balance of rewards and punishments for that particular person.

Advantages

- Findings are easy to replicate which makes them reliable

- Findings have practical applications

Disadvantages

- Behaviour can be unlearnt

- The theory doesn't account for other explanations of behaviour or other methods of learning

Advantages

- Skinner's study on animals demonstrates that learning is done through experience.

- Schools often use punishment and reward in order to teach students which suggests that the theory is correct.

Disadvantages

- Studies have been on animals rather than humans, this means that the theory may not apply to humans the way we think it does.

- The theory ignores internal thinking, values and attitude.

- Humans have free will. We can choose something that causes us pain to help others. 

- If this is the case then criminals should not be punished for their crimes as their behaviour is not their fault, it was learned.