B.F. Skinner - Behavioral Psychologist

B.F. Skinner was an influential American psychologist known for his work in behaviorism, which focuses on how external factors shape behavior. He introduced concepts like operant conditioning, where behaviors are strengthened or weakened based on their consequences—rewards increase the likelihood of a behavior recurring, while punishments decrease it. Skinner believed that understanding these patterns could help modify behavior effectively. His experiments, often involving animals in controlled settings, highlighted how the environment impacts learning and behavior. Skinner’s ideas have significantly influenced education, psychology, and even modern approaches to behavior modification.