According to the Law of Effect, when is behavior likely to be repeated?

The Law of Effect, proposed by Edward Thorndike, posits that behaviors that are followed by satisfying or favorable consequences are more likely to be repeated in the future. This principle highlights the motivational aspect of reinforcement, where positive outcomes strengthen the association between a behavior and its context, leading to an increase in the likelihood of that behavior being exhibited again.

When behavior is followed by a reward, it reinforces the action, making the individual more inclined to repeat the behavior in similar situations. This is a fundamental concept in learning theories, particularly operant conditioning, where reinforcement plays a crucial role in shaping behavior. Rewards can take many forms, such as praise, tangible rewards, or intrinsic satisfaction, all serving to encourage the continuation of the behavior that preceded them.

In contrast, behaviors that are not reinforced or that are followed by punishment tend to diminish, as they fail to provide the positive feedback necessary for repetition. Therefore, the correct response aligns with the core principle of the Law of Effect, emphasizing the positive relationship between reward and the likelihood of behavior recurrence.