Law of Effect
Law of Effect
Behaviors that produce satisfying outcomes tend to be repeated, while behaviors that produce unpleasant outcomes tend to decrease. It is a fundamental psychological principle stating that the consequences of a behavior determine its future occurrence.
Details
What is the Law of Effect?
The Law of Effect is a learning principle proposed by psychologist Edward Thorndike in 1898, stating that if the consequences of a behavior are satisfying, that behavior is strengthened; if unpleasant, it is weakened.
Thorndike's Experiment
Thorndike placed a cat in a puzzle box and observed:
Everyday Applications
The Law of Effect operates throughout our daily lives:
Significance in Psychology
The Law of Effect became the foundation for Skinner's theory of operant conditioning. It was the starting point of behavioral psychology, which systematically studies how rewards and punishments influence behavior.
Connection to Mental Health
A Word from Mindy
If you accomplished even something small today, give yourself a warm word of praise. That good feeling will become the strength that carries you one step further tomorrow.
💡 Real-Life Example
When a child cleans their room and receives praise from their parents, they are more likely to clean on their own next time — this is the Law of Effect in action.
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.