AP Psychology Practice Test

What is the purpose of an operant chamber in conditioning research?

1. To observe spontaneous recovery

2. To measure generalization

3. To record rates of specific behaviors

4. To distinguish between stimuli

The correct answer is: To record rates of specific behaviors

The operant chamber, often referred to as a Skinner box, is designed specifically for the systematic study of operant conditioning. Its primary purpose is to measure the rates of specific behaviors exhibited by an organism, usually under controlled conditions. Researchers can track responses such as pressing a lever or pecking a disc, which are directly influenced by reinforcement or punishment. This allows for precise data collection on how often the subject performs the desired behavior in response to different variables, such as the presence or absence of rewards. In contrast, other options focus on aspects of learning and behavior that the operant chamber is not primarily set up to assess. For instance, observing spontaneous recovery pertains to the reappearance of a previously extinguished behavior, while measuring generalization relates to how responses are applied to different but similar stimuli. Distinguishing between stimuli involves understanding discriminative stimuli and doesn't specifically require the use of an operant chamber for measurement. Thus, the design and functionality of the operant chamber make it ideally suited for recording rates of particular behaviors, making this the correct answer.