Antecedent effects of observing peer play

Abstract

The relative reinforcing value of toys was assessed in the absence of, and immediately following, participant observation of a peer manipulating one of the toys. Preference assessments were used to identify preference hierarchies. Reinforcer assessments were conducted with a high-preference item, a low-preference item, and a control. Each participant allocated responding toward the high-preference item during baseline. When reinforcer assessment sessions were preceded by a peer observation period, 3 of the 4 participants shifted allocation to the toy manipulated by the peer. The 4th participant shifted allocation only when the high-preference stimulus was replaced with a medium-preference stimulus. These data suggest that, among preschoolers, response allocation is influenced by observations of peers playing.

Figure 1

The percentage of time in zone during the reinforcer assessments is shown for Amy and Adam (left). Responses per minute during the reinforcer assessments are depicted for Larry and Kerry (right). Brackets indicate reinforcer assessments conducted after observation of peer play. Phase descriptors within the brackets indicate the item (HP, LP, or MP) manipulated by the peer.