Skinner box [Burrhus F. Skinner, American psychologist, 1904–1990; L, buxus, boxwood] , a boxlike laboratory apparatus used in operant conditioning of animals, usually containing a lever or other device that when pressed reinforces by either giving a reward, such as food or an escape outlet, or removing a punishment, such as an electric shock. Also called standard environmental chamber. See also operant conditioning.
