Cf_mos_and_sds Motivating Operations and Discriminative Stimuli

The document is an academic paper from an "Advanced Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis" course that defines, compares, and illustrates the concepts of Motivating Operations (MOs) and Discriminative Stimuli ($text{S}^text{D}$s), two key antecedent variables in operant conditioning.DescriptionThe paper examines the similarities and differences between Motivating Operations (MOs) and Discriminative Stimuli ($text{S}^text{D}$s) and provides three narrative examples of how these variables work together to influence behavior.Comparison of MOs and $text{S}^text{D}$sFeatureSimilaritiesDifferencesTypeBoth are antecedent variables (occur before the behavior) and operant variables that act as behavior stimuli1.$text{S}^text{D}$s reinforce behavior by providing a link to the differential accessibility of an effective motivator2.FunctionBoth influence the current frequency of behavior reinforced by a specific stimulus (elicit behavior-altering effects)3.MOs provide the differential strengthening and alter the value of reinforcers to the behavior4.SignalingBoth are catalysts for behavioral modification5.$text{S}^text{D}$s signal the availability of reinforcers and discriminate appropriately (providing a cue)6. MOs do not prompt any signs for the availability of reinforcement7.MechanismMOs account for satiation or deprivation for a particular reinforcer8. $text{S}^text{D}$s alter the level of motivation by signaling the availability of reinforcement to acquire it9.Examples of MOs and $text{S}^text{D}$s Working TogetherThe paper illustrates their joint function with three scenarios:MO: Feeling hungry (deprivation increases the value of food as a reinforcer). $text{S}^text{D}$: Seeing a sandwich signpost (signals that sandwiches, the desired item, are available).MO: Freezing in the cold (unconditioned motivation increases the value of warmth/a jacket as a reinforcer). $text{S}^text{D}$: The thought/sight of a jacket in a boutique (signals the availability of the reinforcer).MO: Desperation/Need for a clue on how to complete a research paper (increases the value of information/algorithms as a reinforcer). $text{S}^text{D}$: Seeing a book with a relevant chapter (signals the availability of the information).In summary, the paper concludes that Motivating Operations represent events that encourage or motivate the occurrence of a behavior (the reinforcers that evoke an action)16. Discriminative Stimuli are identified as the setters of the occasion for a behavior's occurrence, which has already been reinforced in the past17.