The term 'operant conditioning' has been introduced by the American learning theorist B. F. Skinner. Skinners experimental and theoretical work is essentially derived from earlier experimental and theoretical work of Becterev and Thorndike, investigating the influence of the effect of certain behaviour on the reoccurence of that behaviour. Skinners basic hypothesis proposes that all operant behaviour (i.e. behaviour that 'operatel' on the environment) is learned and consequently is maintained by one or more specific stimuli contingent upon that behaviour. These stimuli are called by definition reinforcements. Extinction of this behaviour takes place when reinforcements are consistently withdrawn. Skinner called the learning process involved 'operant conditioning' or 'operant learning'.
Until recently this hypothesis has been applied with promising results, particularly in behaviour-modification of seriously disturbed adult psychiatric patients and of children. However only incidental experience has been gained in respect to the treatment of neurotic behaviour of adults. In this exposition I have suggested that the most promising possibilities present themselves in the attempt to modify the stimulus constellation characteristic of the patients daily life. Perhaps a second highly potential opportunity is off ered in a systematic application of operant conditioning in role-play procedures.