Briefly explain operant conditioning theory and describe the four tools the theory provides for managers.
What will be an ideal response?
According to operant conditioning theory, people learn to perform behaviors that lead to desired consequences and learn not to perform behaviors that lead to undesired consequences. Operant conditioning theory provides four tools that managers can use to motivate high performance and prevent workers from engaging in absenteeism and other behaviors that detract from organizational effectiveness. (1) Positive reinforcement gives people outcomes they desire when they perform organizationally functional behaviors. (2) Negative reinforcement also can encourage members of an organization to perform desired or organizationally functional behaviors. (3) According to operant conditioning theory, all behavior is controlled or determined by its consequences; one way for managers to curtail the performance of dysfunctional behaviors is to eliminate whatever is reinforcing the behaviors. This process is called extinction. (4) Administering an undesired or negative consequence when dysfunctional behavior occurs is called punishment.
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Ron's Furnace Repair advertised it would inspect any homeowner's furnace for free. Janet had Ron's come to inspect her furnace. The servicewoman dismantled the entire furnace then refused to put it back together unless Janet paid her $250. The FTC considers such a practice to be
A. an unfair practice. B. a deceptive practice. C. an act that violates public policy. D. All of these are correct.
Below is financial data for Computech Industries' current year. Net sales on account during year $500,000 Cost of merchandise sold during year 300,000 Accounts receivable, beginning of year 45,000 Accounts receivable, end of year 35,000 Inventory, beginning of year 90,000 Inventory, end of year 110,000 Refer to the data for Computech Industries. Based on this information, what is Computech's
number of days' sales in inventory (assuming a 360 day year)? a. 132 days b. 216 days c. 1,091 days d. 120 days
The primary difference between domestic and international research is that, international market data are ________.
A. more easily comparable than domestic data B. more difficult to understand than domestic data C. more reliable than domestic data D. more easily accessible than domestic data E. more accurate than domestic data
Independents can compete with chain organizations (in terms of image, promotional effectiveness, and central organization assistance) through _____
a. franchising b. an off-price chain c. a vertical marketing system d. a leased department