Who is associated with the development of operant conditioning?

B.F. Skinner is the key figure associated with the development of operant conditioning, a fundamental concept in behavioral psychology. Operant conditioning refers to a learning process through which behaviors are modified based on the consequences they produce. Skinner's experiments with rats and pigeons demonstrated how reinforcements (positive or negative) could increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while punishments could decrease the likelihood. This approach built upon the principles established by earlier theories of learning and behavior, emphasizing the role of environmental factors in shaping actions.

Skinner's work not only highlighted the significance of rewards and punishments in learning but also laid the groundwork for practical applications in education, therapy, and behavior modification. His use of the Skinner Box, a controlled environment for observing the behavior of organisms, became a classic method for demonstrating operant conditioning principles.