Which of these statements is most consistent with Skinner's views about the effects of punishment?
A) He believed that schools should continue the use of corporal punishment as an effective way to control students' behavior.
B) He was said to have enjoyed shocking rats and using other punishments to "teach" organisms new behaviors.
C) He generally believed that punishment altered behavior in a desirable direction.
D) He believed that punishment for undesirable behavior was in most cases a poor teacher in comparison to reward for desirable behavior.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Skinner, a behaviorist, argued that positive reinforcement is more effective than punishment in shaping behavior. He believed that punishment might stop undesirable behavior temporarily, but it does not teach or promote the development of alternative, desirable behavior. Skinner emphasized the use of positive reinforcement to strengthen desired behaviors rather than relying on punishment to reduce unwanted behaviors.

Which of These Statements Is Most Consistent with Skinner's Views