Law of use' and 'Law of disuse' is related with which law of learning according to Thorndike's learning theory?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:
The Law of Exercise, one of Edward Thorndike's three primary Laws of Learning (along with the Law of Readiness and the Law of Effect), is centrally concerned with the strengthening or weakening of the connection between a stimulus and a response. This law is further subdivided into two parts: the Law of Use and the Law of Disuse. The **Law of Use** states that the more frequently a connection between a stimulus and a response is practiced or used, the stronger that connection becomes. Conversely, the **Law of Disuse** posits that if a connection is not practiced or used for a period of time, it will gradually weaken or be forgotten. Therefore, these two specific principles are direct components of Thorndike’s overarching Law of Exercise, emphasizing the role of practice and repetition in the learning process.

The incorrect option is 1:
The Law of Readiness focuses on the learner's state of being prepared or motivated to act, suggesting that learning is more effective when the learner is physically and mentally ready. It deals with the preparatory set of the individual, not the effects of repeated practice or lack thereof.

The incorrect option is 3:
The Law of Effect states that responses followed by satisfying consequences (rewards) are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by annoying consequences (punishment) are less likely to be repeated. This law is about the consequence of a behavior determining the strength of the S-R bond, which is distinct from the sheer amount of practice (use or disuse).

The incorrect option is 4:
The Law of Multiple Response is one of Thorndike's subordinate laws, which states that when facing a new problem, the learner will try various responses until a satisfactory one is found. This principle relates to the trial-and-error process itself, and not specifically to how the learned connection is maintained or lost over time through use or disuse.