Image for Skinner

Skinner

B.F. Skinner was a prominent American psychologist known for his work in behaviorism, particularly the concept of operant conditioning. He proposed that behavior is shaped by its consequences—reinforcements that encourage behavior and punishments that discourage it. Skinner used devices like the Skinner box to study animal behavior, demonstrating how rewards (like food) could lead to repeated actions. His theories have influenced education, therapy, and parenting, emphasizing that positive reinforcement can effectively modify behavior. Skinner's ideas remain foundational in psychology and behavioral science.