Edward Thorndike proposed the Law of Effect, which states that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by unpleasant consequences are less likely to occur. This principle laid the groundwork for B.F. Skinner's later work on operant conditioning.
3362
Who, in the late 19th century, conducted animal experiments that led to the formulation of laws of learning based on trial and error?
Edward Thorndike is famous for his work with puzzle boxes and cats, which led to his formulation of the 'Law of Effect.' This law states that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated, forming the basis of his theory on trial-and-error learning.
3363
According to Thorndike's Law of Effect, what is the temporal relationship between a response and the reinforcing event?
Thorndike's Law of Effect posits that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated. Therefore, the reinforcing event must occur after the response to strengthen the association between the stimulus and the behavior, effectively shaping future actions based on past outcomes.
3364
Which of the following are recognized as established laws within the field of psychology?
In psychology, the 'Law of Effect' (proposed by Edward Thorndike) states that behaviors followed by favorable consequences are more likely to be repeated. 'Weber's Law' relates to the just-noticeable difference in sensory perception. While thermodynamics and gravity are physical laws, the Law of Effect and Weber's Law are foundational principles specifically within psychological science.
3365
Which statement best summarizes Thorndike’s Law of Effect?
The Law of Effect states that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by unpleasant consequences are less likely to be repeated. 'If it works, repeat it' captures this principle.
3366
Which researcher is credited with the initial scientific investigation into operant conditioning?
Edward L. Thorndike is widely recognized for his pioneering work on the 'Law of Effect,' which laid the foundation for operant conditioning. His experiments with puzzle boxes demonstrated that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated, a principle later expanded upon by B.F. Skinner.
3367
Which psychologist is credited with developing the theory of connectionism?
Edward Thorndike formulated the theory of connectionism, which posits that learning is the result of associations formed between stimulus and response. He famously utilized puzzle boxes to demonstrate how behaviors that lead to satisfying outcomes are more likely to be repeated.
3368
What is the primary effect of an activity that yields pleasant results on the learning process?
When the outcome of an activity is pleasant, it acts as a form of reinforcement. According to the Law of Effect, behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated and retained. This positive reinforcement strengthens the neural connection between the stimulus and the response, making the acquired learning significantly more durable and long-lasting over time.
3369
Which specific type of learning, essential for survival, involves young birds forming a strong attachment to the first moving object they encounter?
Imprinting is a critical period of learning in young birds, where they form a bond with the first moving object they encounter, usually their mother, and follow it. This ensures their survival and is a unique characteristic of birds like geese, ducks, and chickens.
3370
In Pavlov's classical conditioning experiments, how is the dog's salivation response to the presentation of food classified?
In Pavlov's experiments, the dog's salivation is a natural, biological reflex triggered by the presence of food. Because this response occurs without any prior training or conditioning, it is defined as an unconditioned response. The food itself serves as the unconditioned stimulus that naturally elicits this physiological reaction.
