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Adaptive Behavior

Fact, myth and conjecture about human and animal adaptation

Forgiveness
Should We Blame Criminals?

John Staddon, Ph.D. on January 4, 2023

A faction in legal theory claims that people should not be blamed for bad behavior because "they can't help it." Behavioral psychology, and logic, says otherwise.

A faction in legal theory claims that people should not be blamed for bad behavior because "they can't help it." Behavioral psychology, and logic, says otherwise.

Philosophy
The APA Guidelines

John Staddon, Ph.D. on April 22, 2019

What is the proper role for a professional organisation that serves both scientists and practitioners?

What is the proper role for a professional organisation that serves both scientists and practitioners?

Animal Behavior
Animal Research

John Staddon, Ph.D. on November 26, 2017

Can research with animals advance human psychology? How trustworthy is a conservative commentator?

Can research with animals advance human psychology? How trustworthy is a conservative commentator?

Politics
Malthus, Parkinson and the Ministry of Repeal

John Staddon, Ph.D. on January 16, 2017

Our legislative system is unbalanced. Too many, too bad, too old laws. Malthus and Parkinson show us the cause. Creating yet another bureaucracy may provide a cure.

Our legislative system is unbalanced. Too many, too bad, too old laws. Malthus and Parkinson show us the cause. Creating yet another bureaucracy may provide a cure.

Motivation
What’s It All About, Alfie? (And Fred)

John Staddon, Ph.D. on October 7, 2016

Are schedules of reinforcement an accurate template for education? Or is operant conditioning irrelevant? Is education all about 'intrinsic motivation'?

Are schedules of reinforcement an accurate template for education? Or is operant conditioning irrelevant? Is education all about 'intrinsic motivation'?

Education
Size Matters

John Staddon, Ph.D. on August 25, 2016

When is a gift not a gift? The hidden, but predictable, cost of real-life changes in reinforcement schedule

When is a gift not a gift? The hidden, but predictable, cost of real-life changes in reinforcement schedule

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May 2023
Find Your Path Forward

Hope is double-edged, false hope can set you on a collision course with despair. Know when your hopes are well-founded and how to turn your deep desires into results.

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