What effect does a behavior-altering operation have on behavior?

A behavior-altering operation has the capacity to influence the likelihood of a behavior occurring by either increasing or decreasing it, contingent upon the value of the reinforcer associated with that behavior. This concept is grounded in the principles of behavior analysis, particularly concerning motivating operations.

When a reinforcer's value changes—either due to deprivation or satiation—it can alter the probability of a related behavior happening in the future. For instance, if an individual has been deprived of a specific reinforcer (like food), the likelihood of behaviors that would lead to obtaining that reinforcer (such as making a request) may increase. Conversely, if an individual has just eaten and feels satiated, the chances of the same behavior might decrease.

This flexibility in the effect that a behavior-altering operation can have on behavior underscores the dynamic nature of behavior itself, showing how environmental and internal conditions impact motivation and behavior expression. Therefore, the notion that a behavior-altering operation can either increase or decrease the probabilities of behavior occurring, depending on the context and value of the reinforcers involved, is consistent with the principles of applied behavior analysis.