What is the process of using reinforcement to gradually change the topography of a response called?

The process of using reinforcement to gradually change the topography of a response is known as shaping. This method involves reinforcing successive approximations of a desired behavior, which helps to bring the individual closer to the target behavior over time. For example, if you want to teach a child to say "dog," you might start by reinforcing them for any sound that resembles "dog," then for more complete approximations, until they are saying "dog" clearly.

Shaping is particularly useful because it allows for the gradual development of complex behaviors by breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps and reinforcing each step along the way. This approach helps in shaping new behaviors that may not be present in the individual's repertoire, making it an essential technique in applied behavior analysis.