Concepts · Domain G
Shaping vs. chaining
The difference in short
Shaping and chaining build behavior differently. Shaping reinforces successive approximations toward one new behavior (a single behavior that's refined). Chaining links a sequence of already-existing behaviors in a fixed order.
Quick comparison
| Shaping | Chaining | |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Reinforces successive approximations to ONE new behavior | Links a sequence of existing behaviors |
| Effect | One behavior being refined | Several steps joined in order |
| Example | Reinforcing sounds that get closer and closer to “mama”. | Teaching handwashing step by step. |
How to tell them apart
- Are you building ONE new behavior through approximations (shaping) or LINKING steps in sequence (chaining)?
Examples
Shaping
Reinforcing sounds that get closer and closer to “mama”.
Chaining
Teaching handwashing step by step.
Frequently asked
Is toothbrushing taught with shaping or chaining?
With chaining: it's a sequence of already-possible steps (grab the brush, add paste, brush…) linked in order.
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