Skinner conducted a famous study in which he punished bar pressing in rats attempting to obtain food by having the bar slap their paws each time they pressed it. Based on the results of this study, Skinner concluded that

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Skinner concluded that punishment temporarily suppresses behavior, but it is ineffective in the long run. This is because the punished behavior is only suppressed as long as the threat of punishment is present, and once the threat is removed, the behavior will likely return. Additionally, punishment can lead to negative side effects such as increased aggression and anxiety. Ultimately, Skinner believed that positive reinforcement was a more effective and humane way of shaping behavior.

Skinner Conducted a Famous Study in Which He Punished Bar