Problem 12 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

A terrorist blows up a building in a hated foreign country. How might Skinner explain the terrorist's behavior?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

According to Skinner, the terrorist's behavior can be understood as a result of operant conditioning, where behaviors are shaped by their consequences. The terrorist's actions could have been driven by both positive reinforcements (rewards), such as validation and praise, and negative reinforcements (punishments), such as personal experiences of harm or injustice. Additionally, environmental factors play a significant role in conditioning this behavior. Therefore, the terrorist becomes conditioned to commit such acts in response to these variables in their environment.

Step 1: Background of Skinner's Theory

B.F. Skinner's theory of operant conditioning explains how our behaviors are shaped by consequences. Positive consequences (rewards) increase the likelihood of behaviors, while negative consequences (punishments) decrease the probability of behaviors.

Step 2: Applying Theory to The Behavior

In the case of the terrorist, Skinner would likely argue that their behavior is a result of both positive and negative reinforcements within their environment. If the terrorist grew up in an environment that celebrates such acts, the positive reinforcement (i.e., praise, respect, etc.) could have conditioned them to see terrorism as desirable. Conversely, if the terrorist had negative experiences with the foreign country (exploitation, oppression, violence), this could serve as punishment that drives them to retaliate.

Step 3: Role of Environment

Skinner emphasized that environment plays a significant role in shaping behavior. This would imply that extremist ideologies, political climate, socioeconomic conditions, personal experiences, and societal reactions are all elements of the ‘environment’ that have conditioned the terrorist to behave as they have done.

Step 4: Conditioning and Learning

Skinner would also point to a learning component in the terrorist's actions. If previous actions were met with positive outcomes (success, positive recognition), the terrorist is likely to repeat such behavior. This incessant pattern of behavior, reinforced positively or negatively, has inherent learning components that ultimately lead to the act of bombing.