Which theory includes the idea that rewards increase the likelihood of certain behaviors?

The Law of Effect is a principle established by the psychologist Edward Thorndike, which posits that behaviors followed by satisfying outcomes are more likely to be repeated in the future, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to be repeated. This theory emphasizes the role of consequences in shaping behavior, suggesting that positive reinforcement (rewards) increases the probability of a behavior occurring again.

In this context, rewards serve as positive reinforcements, making the behaviors leading to those rewards more likely to be repeated. Therefore, the Law of Effect fundamentally ties rewards to behavioral outcomes, establishing a clear connection between reinforcement and learning.

Other theories, such as behaviorist theory, also discuss behavior and reinforcement, but the Law of Effect specifically encapsulates the concept that rewards enhance the likelihood of certain behaviors, making it the most precise answer in this scenario. The cognitive development theory and constructivist theory focus more on internal processes and the ways individuals construct knowledge rather than the direct influence of rewards on behavior.