Use shaping to gradually guide behavior in the desired direction from "summary" of Don't Shoot the Dog! by Karen Pryor
Shaping involves the process of reinforcing small steps that lead to the desired behavior. Instead of waiting for the animal to perform the entire behavior perfectly, we break it down into manageable components. By reinforcing each small step towards the target behavior, we can gradually mold the animal's behavior in the right direction.
Shaping allows us to guide the animal towards the desired behavior without resorting to punishment or force. It is a gentle and effective way to encourage the animal to exhibit the behavior we want. By rewarding even the smallest approximations of the desired behavior, we can communicate to the animal what we are looking for.
The key to shaping is to be clear about the criteria for reinforcement. We need to decide what constitutes progress towards the desired behavior and reward those instances consistently. This clarity helps the animal understand what is expected of it and motivates it to continue trying.
As we shape the behavior, we must be patient and observant. It may take time for the animal to understand what is being asked of it, and we need to be ready to reinforce any small step in the right direction. By paying attention to the animal's responses and adjusting our criteria as needed, we can help it progress towards the final goal.
Shaping is a flexible technique that can be used in a variety of situations. Whether we are training a new behavior or modifying an existing one, shaping allows us to tailor our approach to the individual animal. By breaking down the behavior into manageable steps and rewarding progress along the way, we can effectively shape the animal's behavior in the desired direction.
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