Problem 7 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

Give some examples of poorly designed contingencies of reinforcement that are common in our society.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Poorly designed contingencies of reinforcement in society could include rewarding good behavior with unhealthy foods, excessive issuance of speeding tickets, giving out participation rewards to everyone in a competition, and educational policies that encourage teaching to the test.

Step 1: Identifying Poorly Designed Contingencies

Starting with the definition, contingencies of reinforcement are the relationships between a behavior and the consequences of that behavior. In poorly designed contingences, the reinforcement often encourages the opposite behavior of what was intended.

Step 2: Example 1: Junk Food Rewards

Coming to our first example, schools and parents sometimes reward children with junk food for good behavior or performance. This, however, encourages unhealthy eating habits.

Step 3: Example 2: Speeding Tickets

Consider the incidence of speeding tickets, a punishment intended to enforce safe driving habits. Yet, an overemphasis on quotas may lead officers to issue tickets excessively, causing resentment among drivers and not really decreasing the rate of speeding.

Step 4: Example 3: Excessive Participation Rewards

Another example, in some school or amateur sports events, every participant receives a reward regardless of performance. This can diminish the value of achievement and reduce the motivation for personal improvement.

Step 5: Example 4: 'No Child Left Behind' Policy

Another example from the education system is the 'No Child Left Behind' policy. This system can inadvertently encourage schools to 'teach to the test', focusing too much on testing metrics and not enough on developing well-rounded students.