What is the definition of a free operant?

A free operant is defined as behavior that can occur at any time, without restrictions, and can be measured in terms of its duration, rate, or frequency. This concept emphasizes the idea that the individual has the freedom to engage in the behavior whenever they choose, allowing for an unobstructed analysis of how often or for how long a particular behavior occurs.

By focusing on the absence of restrictions, the definition captures the essence of free operant behavior, highlighting the natural and unencumbered way in which individuals can interact with their environment. This flexibility in measurement is crucial for understanding how behaviors can vary in different contexts and how they can be influenced by reinforcement strategies.

The other concepts mentioned do not fully encompass the comprehensive nature of what free operant behavior entails, as they either describe specific aspects of behavior frequency or conditions of reinforcement that do not align with the broader definition of being free from constraints.