Which theory states that behavior that is reinforced tends to be repeated, and behavior that is not reinforced tends to die out?

Which theory states that behavior that is reinforced tends to be repeated, and behavior that is not reinforced tends to die out?

• A. Pavlov's Classical Conditioning
• B. Skinner's Operant Conditioning
• C. Thorndike's Law of Effect
• D. Kohler's Insight Learning

Answer: (B)

Behavior is shaped by its consequences. When a behavior is followed by reinforcement, the likelihood it will be repeated increases; when it isn’t reinforced, it tends to fade away. This is the essence of operant conditioning, the theory associated with Skinner. Pavlov’s classical conditioning focuses on forming associations between stimuli and automatic responses, not on reinforcing or extinguishing voluntary behaviors. Kohler’s insight learning involves problem-solving moments rather than shaping behavior through reinforcement. Thorndike’s Law of Effect is an earlier idea that consequences influence behavior, laying the groundwork for operant conditioning but not as explicitly about reinforcement in the modern sense.

Behavior is shaped by its consequences. When a behavior is followed by reinforcement, the likelihood it will be repeated increases; when it isn’t reinforced, it tends to fade away. This is the essence of operant conditioning, the theory associated with Skinner. Pavlov’s classical conditioning focuses on forming associations between stimuli and automatic responses, not on reinforcing or extinguishing voluntary behaviors. Kohler’s insight learning involves problem-solving moments rather than shaping behavior through reinforcement. Thorndike’s Law of Effect is an earlier idea that consequences influence behavior, laying the groundwork for operant conditioning but not as explicitly about reinforcement in the modern sense.