What does the "law of effect" express about behaviors and consequences?

The "law of effect" is a principle formulated by Edward Thorndike, which states that behaviors followed by favorable consequences are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors followed by unfavorable consequences are less likely to be repeated. This principle emphasizes the relationship between actions and their outcomes, highlighting that the consequences of a behavior play a crucial role in determining whether that behavior will be continued in the future. Thus, when a behavior produces a positive outcome or enjoyment, it encourages the repetition of that behavior. This concept is foundational in understanding how reinforcement works in operant conditioning, where consequences shape behavior over time.