Does Training with Differential Reinforcement on Similar Problems Help in Solving a New Problem?

Abstract

An experiment to determine, for achieving correct solutions to the Hatrack Problem whether prior experience on a simpler version of the problem helps and the effects of positive and negative reinforcement. After 30 min., 50.0% of the 30 Ss with no experience but only 25.0% of the 60 Ss with experience on the simpler version solved the problem (p < .05). Positive and negative reinforcement showed no differential effects for 30 Ss receiving each. Previous experience may inhibit productive problem solving by providing too many false directions. Principles of reinforcement developed for learning are limited in their applicability to problem-solving behavior.

Get full access to this article

View all access options for this article.

References

Birch

H. G.

The role of motivational factors in insightful problem solving. J. comp. Psychol., 1945, 38, 295–317.

Gagne

R. M.

An analysis of two problem-solving activities. Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, 1954. (Res. Bull. AFPTRC-TR-54-77)

Grant

D. A.

, & Berg

E. A.

A behavioral analysis of degree of reinforcement and ease of shifting to new responses in a Weigl-type card-sorting problem. J. exp. Psychol., 1948, 38, 404–411.

Harlow

H. F.

The formation of learning sets. Psychol. Rev., 1949, 56, 51–65.

Harrow

, & Friedman

G. B.

Comparing reversal and nonreversal shifts in concept formation with partial reinforcement controlled. J. exp. Psychol., 1958, 55, 592–598.

Judson

A. J.

Cofer

C. N.

, & Gelfand

Reasoning as an associative process: II. “Direction” in problem solving as a function of prior reinforcement of relevant responses. Psychol. Rep., 1956, 2, 501–507.

Maier

N. R. F.

Reasoning in humans: I. On direction. J. comp. Psychol., 1930, 12, 115–143.

Maier

N. R. F.

An aspect of human reasoning. Brit. J. Psychol. (Gen. Sect.), 1933, 24, 144–155.

Maier

N. R. F.

Reasoning in humans: III. The mechanisms of equivalent stimuli and of reasoning. J. exp. Psychol., 1945, 35, 349–360.

10.

Maltzman

On the training of originality. Psychol. Rev., 1960, 67, 229–242.

11.

Saugstad

Problem-solving as dependent on availability of functions. Brit. J. Psychol., 1955, 46, 191–198.