What is a core principle of Skinner's behaviorism?

A core principle of Skinner's behaviorism is the use of rewards and punishments to influence behavior. Skinner proposed that behavior could be shaped and modified through reinforcement, which can be positive (adding a desirable stimulus following a behavior) or negative (removing an aversive stimulus following a behavior). This principle is fundamental to operant conditioning, as it highlights the role of consequences in learning. By systematically applying rewards and punishments, educators and behaviorists can encourage desired behaviors and discourage undesired ones, leading to effective learning and behavioral change. This approach underscores the importance of external factors in shaping behavior, emphasizing that learning is not merely a cognitive process but heavily influenced by environmental stimuli.