Shaping is a behavioral technique used in psychology and education to teach new skills by reinforcing successive approximations of a desired behavior. This method involves breaking down a complex behavior into smaller, manageable steps and rewarding each step as it is achieved. For example, if teaching a dog to roll over, the trainer might first reward the dog for lying down, then for turning its head, and finally for completing the roll. This technique is often associated with B.F. Skinner, a prominent psychologist known for his work in operant conditioning. Shaping is effective in various settings, including animal training, classroom instruction, and therapy, as it encourages gradual learning and builds confidence in the learner.