MGT 380 Lecture Notes - Lecture 12: Reinforcement
Document Summary
Reinforcement theory attempts to explain behavior change by suggesting that behavior with positive consequences tends to be repeated, whereas behavior with negative consequences tends not to be repeated. Steps to reinforce desired behavior: positive reinforcement use of positive consequences to encourage desirable behavior, negative reinforcement removal of unpleasant consequences following a desired behavior. Steps to stop undesired behavior: punishment application of negative consequences to stop or change undesirable behavior, extinction withholding or withdrawal of positive rewards for undesirable behavior, so that behavior is less likely to occur. Positive reinforcement: reward only desirable behavior, give rewards as soon as possible, be clear about what behavior is desired, have different rewards and recognize individual differences. Frequency how often do you reinforce: every time, fixed schedule (ex: every 5th time, every other day, randomly. Amount of reinforcement: fixed amount, random amount, proportional to behavior/effort. Elements of popular incentive compensation plans: piece rate, sales commission, bonuses, profit-sharing, gainsharing, stock options, pay for knowledge.