The distinctive characteristic of operant conditioning relative to previous forms of behaviorism (for example Thorndike and Hull) is that the organism can emit responses instead of only eliciting response due to an external stimulus (Markle 61). Reinforcement is the key element in Skinners S-R theory (Markle 61). A reinforcer is anything that strengthens the desired response (Skinner 47). It could be verbal praise, a good grade, or a feeling of increased accomplishment or satisfaction (Skinner 47). The theory also covers negative reinforcers (punishment) that result in the reduction of undesired responses (Markle 61). A great deal of attention was given to schedules of reinforcement and their effects on establishing and maintaining behavior (Markle 61). After this book was written, Skinner married Yvonne Blue (Academic American 343). In 1938, he had his first daughter, Julie Vargas and his second one in 1944, named Deborah Buzan (Academic American 343). During World War II, Skinner was an associate professor for the United States Office of Scientific Research and Development (Encarta 95). He did important research, which eventually led to his development of the Skinner Box (Encarta 95). This research included training pigeon guided missiles (World Authors 764). Skinner was supported by General Motors, Inc. and the Office of Scientific Research and Development (Encarta 95). It was also during this time in which he first designed his baby box, also called the Aircrib (World Authors 764). The baby box is a controlled environmental chamber for infants (World Authors 764). Skinner used his own daughter, Deborah, (along with two granddaughters), for this baby box (World Authors 764). The Aircrib is a large, air-conditioned, germ-free, soundproof box made to give an ideal environment (World Authors 766). The baby put in the box could play or sleep without clothes or coverings (World Authors 766). The result of this experiment ...
