The Law of Effect is associated with which theorist?

The Law of Effect is a principle formulated by Edward L. Thorndike, which states that responses that produce a satisfying effect in a particular situation become more likely to occur again in that situation, while responses that produce a discomforting effect become less likely. This foundational concept emerged from Thorndike's experiments with animals, particularly his work with cats in puzzle boxes. He observed that cats learned to escape through trial and error, and over time, the behaviors that were successful in obtaining food were reinforced.

Thorndike's research emphasized the importance of consequences in shaping behavior, laying the groundwork for subsequent behaviorist theories. This principle is essential in understanding how learning occurs through reinforcement and punishment, influencing both educational practices and approaches to child development. Other theorists mentioned, like Watson, Skinner, and Pavlov, built upon or focused on different aspects of behaviorism or conditioning, but the specific concept of the Law of Effect is distinctly attributed to Thorndike.