EFFECTS OF RIGHT AND WRONG ON SUBSEQUENT BEHAVIOR - A NEW INTERPRETATION

In Thorndikian experiments, 48 undergraduates responded each time a stimulus was presented. Outcomes, e.g., right or wrong, provided Ss with information about correct responses. Classical results, such as the acquisition of correct responses, and asymmetry in the effects on right and wrong can be explained without using the principle of reinforcement by assuming that (1) S may recall his response without recalling its outcome, and conversely, (2) a response that is not recalled can only be repeated by chance, and (3) the probability of repeating a response that is recalled is independent of the outcome of that response unless it is also recalled. Several experiments testing this thory are reported. In general the results were confirmed. (15 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1969 American Psychological Association.