Who is known for their work on behaviorism alongside Watson and Skinner?

• A. Bandura
• B. Thorndike
• C. Perry
• D. Sullivan

Answer: (B)

The correct choice highlights Edward Thorndike, who is a pivotal figure in the development of behaviorism, alongside notable psychologists such as John Watson and B.F. Skinner. Thorndike is best known for his "Law of Effect," which posits that behaviors that are followed by satisfying outcomes tend to be repeated, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are likely to be diminished. This foundational principle laid the groundwork for later behaviorist theories and practices.

Thorndike's experiments, particularly with animals in puzzle boxes, demonstrated how learning occurs through trial and error, culminating in the establishment of this law that significantly influenced the field. His work focused on the measurable outcomes of behavior, steering psychology towards a more scientific and empirical approach.

This makes Thorndike's contributions significant in the context of behaviorism, as he helped to establish key principles that later behaviorists like Watson and Skinner built upon, solidifying the understanding of learning and behavior change.