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  1. SHAPING Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

    The meaning of SHAPE is form, create; especially : to give a particular form or shape to. How to use shape in a sentence.

  2. Shaping (psychology) - Wikipedia

    In shaping, the form of an existing response is gradually changed across successive trials towards a desired target behavior by reinforcing exact segments of behavior.

  3. SHAPING | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary

    SHAPING meaning: 1. present participle of shape 2. to decide or influence the form of something, especially a belief…. Learn more.

  4. Shaping in Psychology (Definition + Examples) - Practical Psychology

    Oct 6, 2023 · Shaping is a form of conditioning that leads subjects, often animals who are involved in experiments, to complete an operant behavior. This process is also known as “approximation …

  5. 15 Shaping Examples (Psychology) (2026) - Helpful Professor

    May 26, 2024 · Shaping has its roots in the Law of Effect proposed by Thorndike (1905) and principles of Operant Conditioning by Skinner (1965). Both theories emphasize the role of rewards and …

  6. What Is Shaping In Psychology?

    Feb 16, 2017 · Shaping is a conditioning technique that involves working toward a target behavior by breaking it down into gradual, successive steps and rewarding each step on the path toward the …

  7. The importance of shaping in behavior modification

    Jul 30, 2025 · Shaping is rooted in the principles of operant conditioning, a learning process discovered by psychologist B.F. Skinner. The fundamental idea behind shaping is that complex behaviors can …

  8. Shaping - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms | Vocabulary.com

    Whether you’re a teacher or a learner, Vocabulary.com can put you or your class on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement.

  9. Shaping - definition of shaping by The Free Dictionary

    Dec 22, 2015 · To develop into a particular form or condition: This is shaping into one of the biggest scandals of the century.

  10. What is Shaping in Psychology? - KnownPsychology

    Jun 2, 2025 · So, in simple words, shaping in psychology means building a new behavior by rewarding small changes. It’s like helping someone climb stairs — you don’t expect them to jump to the top; …