Which law of 'Trial and Error' given by Thorndike is similar to the concept of 'reinforcement'?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Law of Effect in Thorndike's 'Trial and Error' learning theory is most similar to the concept of 'reinforcement' because it states that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors followed by unpleasant consequences are less likely to be repeated. This directly mirrors the principle of reinforcement, where a stimulus (the satisfying consequence) increases the probability of a response (the behavior). The satisfying consequence acts as a reinforcer, strengthening the connection between the stimulus and the response.

Here's why the other options are incorrect:

*   **Law of Use:** This law states that connections between a stimulus and response are strengthened with practice. While practice can lead to reinforcement, the law itself doesn't directly address the *consequences* of the behavior, which is the core of reinforcement. It's about repetition, not the effect of that repetition.

*   **Law of Disuse:** This law states that connections between a stimulus and response are weakened when practice is discontinued. This is the opposite of reinforcement; it describes extinction, not the strengthening of a behavior through positive consequences.

*   **Law of Readiness:** This law states that an organism must be prepared or ready to perform a behavior for learning to take place. It focuses on the learner's motivation and ability to respond, not on the consequences that influence future behavior. Readiness is a prerequisite for learning, but it doesn't explain how reinforcement works.