Parametros conceituais da resoluçao de problemas en B.F.Skinner

Abstract

Discussing Skinner's interpretation of problem solving implies to bring into focus its specific concept, establishing connection with others aspects of human behavior like rule governed behavior, manipulation of variables, self-control and covert behavior. The present work will be restricted to the first above mentioned aspect: the specific concept of problem solving. When Skinner deals with problem solving, he emphasizes The relation between the person and the situation confronted. This emphasis implies the negation of the idea that a problematic situation exists 'per se'; a situation rnigth or might not be problematic, depending on the relation established by the individual. If it is not possible to talk about a problematic situation 'per se', there must be parameters which enable its identification. Presenting the referential conception of problem solving, Skinner rnakes assertions from which one may conclude that two parameters must be present: l) the existence of a positive or negative contingency of reinforcement (since a reinforcing stimulus could be presented on an aversive one could be removed), and, 2) the person's momentary lack of response. Although these two parameters are identified by the author, there are omissions in Skinner's interpretation and implications for the researcher who is interested in studying problem solving. One of them, for instance, is identified by the question: How does one know if a response is not available al the moment? In other words, is the situation is not problematic 'per se', what does the researcher need lo observe in order lo conclude that the person is confronting a problematic situation? In this paper, omissions in Skinner's interpretation and its implications will be presented and discussed. Besides, a proposal of empirical indicators to be used for each of two parameters will be discussed.