Which term describes a procedure that allows for varying responses to stimuli based on previous reinforcement?

The concept of stimulus control refers to the phenomenon in which the likelihood of a behavior occurring is influenced by the presence of a specific stimulus or cues that have been previously associated with reinforcement. When certain stimuli reliably predict the availability of reinforcement, individuals will adjust their responses accordingly. This adaptability can manifest in different responses to varying stimuli, guided by prior experiences where specific stimuli reinforced certain behaviors.

For instance, if a child learns that a certain sound or visual cue (the stimulus) is followed by a reward (the reinforcement), they will begin to respond to that stimulus in a way that increases the likelihood of receiving the reward in the future. This dynamic interaction between stimuli and responses showcases the essence of stimulus control in behavior modification.

The other options describe different behavioral techniques or concepts but do not specifically capture this adaptive response process influenced by prior reinforcement. Behavior shaping involves gradually reinforcing successive approximations of a desired behavior rather than varying responses to stimuli. Discrete trial training focuses on teaching specific skills through a set structure and is not primarily concerned with varying responses based on previous reinforcement. Contingency management emphasizes modifying behaviors through a system of rewards and consequences but does not directly address the adaptability of responses to varying stimuli in the way that stimulus control does. Hence, stimulus control is the