Question

Write the name of the learning theory which was propounded by Skinner.

Hint:

Operant conditioning emphasizes the impact of consequences (reinforcement and punishment) in shaping behavior.

Answer 1

The learning theory propounded by B.F. Skinner is known as
Operant Conditioning. This theory emphasizes the role of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. According to Skinner, behaviors that are followed by favorable outcomes are likely to be repeated, while behaviors that are followed by unfavorable outcomes are likely to be diminished.

Reinforcement: Skinner proposed that behaviors can be reinforced either through positive reinforcement (adding a pleasant stimulus) or negative reinforcement (removing an unpleasant stimulus). This reinforcement strengthens the behavior.
Punishment: He also discussed punishment, which decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Punishment can be positive (adding an unpleasant stimulus) or negative (removing a pleasant stimulus).
Shaping: Skinner's theory also involves shaping, which is the process of reinforcing successive approximations of the desired behavior.

Conclusion: Skinner’s operant conditioning theory is fundamental in understanding how behavior is learned and modified through reinforcement and punishment.