Thorndike's studies with cats led him to state that behavior that leads to a "satisfying state of affairs" is likely to occur again, whereas behavior that leads to an "annoying state of affairs" is not likely to occur again. This principle is known as:

A) classical conditioning.

B) the law of effect.

C) reinforcement.

D) latent learning.

Question

Social Studies

Clinton

21 February, 15:32

Thorndike's studies with cats led him to state that behavior that leads to a "satisfying state of affairs" is likely to occur again, whereas behavior that leads to an "annoying state of affairs" is not likely to occur again. This principle is known as:

A) classical conditioning.

B) the law of effect.

C) reinforcement.

D) latent learning.

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Paulina Powell · Answer 1

The correct answer is letter B) the law of effect.

Explanation:

Edward Thorndike's law of effect states that, if a behavior is followed by satisfaction, it becomes more probable to happen again and again. On the other hand, if a behavior is followed by dissatisfaction, it is less likely to happen recurrently. This same principle was further developed by psychologist B. F. Skinner in behavioral psychology. In Thorndike's experiment, cats learned that a satisfying reward awaited them when they found their way out of the box. That is why they not only repeated the behavior, but also did it faster.