Which principle explains that behaviors followed by favorable outcomes are likely to be repeated?

The principle that describes how behaviors followed by favorable outcomes are likely to be repeated is Thorndike’s Law of Effect. This principle, formulated by Edward Thorndike in the early 20th century, posits that actions which lead to positive results tend to be strengthened and repeated in the future, while those that lead to negative outcomes are less likely to be repeated. It highlights the impact of consequences on learning and behavior, a foundational concept in behavioral psychology.

Thorndike’s Law of Effect is significant because it emphasizes the relationship between behavior and its consequences, supporting the idea that reinforcement can shape future actions. This principle is often observed in various settings, such as in classrooms, workplaces, and even in personal habits, where positive reinforcement encourages continued behavior.

While terms like Law of Reinforcement and Operant Conditioning Principle may also capture similar ideas about behavior and reinforcement, they are broader concepts that encompass various theories of behavioral learning and conditioning techniques, including those developed by B.F. Skinner. Behavioral Consistency refers to the idea that individuals tend to behave consistently across different situations but does not specifically address the reinforcement aspect of behavior. Thus, Thorndike’s Law of Effect directly addresses the connection between behavior and positive outcomes, making it the most accurate choice