B.12 Identify examples of stimulus control

Stimulus control occurs when a specific environmental stimulus influences a person's behavior. In other words, the presence or absence of a stimulus determines how someone acts. Stimulus control plays a significant role in daily decision-making, helping individuals adapt their behavior to different situations.

Examples of Stimulus Control

1. Family Gatherings: Imagine you enjoy having a drink at family parties. However, at this party, your critical aunt is present. To avoid her criticism, you decide not to drink.

   • Stimulus (environment): The critical aunt.

   • Behavior change: Choosing not to drink to avoid negative feedback.

2. Workplace Behavior: During a conversation with colleagues, your supervisor walks into the room. You immediately stop talking.

   • Stimulus (environment): The presence of the supervisor.

   • Behavior change: Stopping the conversation to show respect or professionalism.

     
     

Stimulus control helps us:

• Adapt behavior to avoid negative outcomes.

• Show consideration for social and professional norms.

• Navigate daily interactions with greater awareness of our surroundings.

Stimulus control is a skill we use every day, often without realizing it. Recognizing examples of stimulus control can help us understand why we or others behave differently in various situations.