Chapter 21, Problem 1MM

Summary Introduction

Concept introduction: Behavior is the capacity of an animal to learn through experience. Behavioral ecology is the study of how natural selection shapes the behavior of an organism. In operant conditioning, the conditioned behavior will be gradually modified by the consequences, as the animal responds to the stimulus.

Answer to Problem 1MM

Correct answer: Thorndike’s law of effect was the basis for Skinner’s work on operant conditioning and behavior control.

Explanation of Solution

Skinner and other psychologists elaborated Thorndike’s law of effect. The law of effect states that “responses produce a satisfying effect in a particular situation become more likely to occur again and responses produce a discomforting effect become less likely to occur”. Using this law, Skinner developed the principles for behavior control. It explains that a positive behavior increases the likelihood and it is called the positive reinforcement. A negative reinforcement is a negative behavior that leads to an undesired behavior. If the positive reinforcement is not existed, the behavior became extinct. Thus, Skinner concluded that the escape-avoidance behavior arises when they are conditioned by the effect of certain stimuli and on the negative consequences, they continue the expected behavior. Thus, Skinner’s hypothesis is based on Thorndike’s law of effect.