
Skinner box (operant conditioning chamber)
A Skinner box, or operant conditioning chamber, is a controlled environment used in behavioral psychology to study how animals learn through consequences. It typically contains a lever or button that an animal can press, a food dispenser or other reward system, and devices to record behavior. When the animal performs a desired action, like pressing the lever, it receives a reward (such as food). Over time, this reinforces the behavior. The setup helps scientists understand how behavior is shaped by reinforcement and punishment, providing insights into learning processes and behavioral modification techniques.