When public manifestations survive, the extent to which the private stimulus takes over is never certain. In the case of a toothache, the private event is no doubt dominant, but this is due to its relative intensity, not to any condition of differential reinforcement. In a description of one’s own behavior, the private component may be much less important. A very strict external contingency may emphasize the public component, especially if the association with private events is faulty. (p. 423)
Cumulative Record. Chapter 28: The Operational Analysis of Psychological Terms. Quote 38
- Post author:B. F. Skinner Foundation
- Post published:December 15, 2023
- Post category:Skinner's Quote of the Day