A fundamental learning process, it involves associating behaviors with their consequences. Through this association, behaviors that are followed by desirable outcomes become more likely to occur, while behaviors followed by undesirable outcomes become less likely to occur. For example, a student who studies diligently and receives a good grade is more likely to continue studying diligently in the future. Conversely, a child who throws a tantrum and is then ignored is less likely to repeat the behavior.
This type of conditioning is crucial in understanding how individuals learn and adapt to their environments. Its principles are widely applied in diverse settings, including education, therapy, and animal training. Historically, B.F. Skinner’s research significantly advanced our knowledge of this mechanism, demonstrating the power of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. Its implications extend to understanding complex human actions and motivations.