Introduction to the special issue: Goal direction and habit in operant behavior.

This article provides an overview of the distinction between goal-directed behavior and habitual behavior in operant behavior. It explains that goal-directed behavior is influenced by the current value of its reinforcing consequence, while habits occur independently of that value. The article discusses various studies that examine the characteristics and measurement of habits, as well as their persistence and susceptibility to change. It also presents alternative frameworks for understanding habits and goal-directed behavior. The article highlights the evolving understanding of habits and their role in behavior. [Extracted from the article]