Skinner, B.F. (Burrhus Frederic)

B.F. Skinner was an influential American psychologist known for developing behaviorism, focusing on how external stimuli influence behavior. He believed that human and animal actions are learned responses shaped by their environment through a process called operant conditioning. In this process, behaviors are reinforced with rewards or discouraged with punishment, which increases or decreases their likelihood. Skinner designed experiments with animals, like rats and pigeons, to demonstrate how predictable behavior could be molded through reinforcement. His work has had a significant impact on psychology, education, and behavior management, emphasizing the importance of observable actions and environmental factors over internal thoughts.