Edward Thorndike would most likely have given which of the following explanations for why cats could eventually escape his puzzle box? The cats(') _____________.
A)eventually gained insight into how to solve the problem
B)eventually, were able to discriminate the CS sufficiently
C)used trial and error and slowly eliminated ineffective responses
D)response cost for ineffective action eventually became too high

Question

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Edward Thorndike is best known for his work on learning theory that led to the development of operant conditioning within behaviorism. Thorndike's law of effect suggests that behaviors followed by pleasant outcomes are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to be repeated. His experiments with cats in puzzle boxes showed that cats escaped through trial and error, gradually eliminating behaviors that did not work (ineffective responses) until they stumbled upon the action that opened the door, which was then strengthened and repeated more quickly in future attempts.

Edward Thorndike Would Most Likely Have Given Which of the Following