Holistic - The Law of Effect by Jamie Milne

The Law of Effect states that behaviours followed by positive outcomes are likely to be repeated, while those followed by negative outcomes are less likely to be repeated. In simpler terms, rewards and punishments affect how likely we are to engage in a specific behavior in the future.

Edward Thorndike's Law of Effect is a key idea in psychology and laid the groundwork for behaviorism. It suggests that habits associated with rewards are more likely to be repeated than those linked to unpleasant outcomes.

To develop new habits, one effective approach is to reward yourself every time you successfully engage in the desired behavior. For example, you might treat yourself to snacks after a morning jog or relax with a favorite TV show after completing household chores. This creates a positive association between the reward and the habit.

However, there’s a more complex side to the Law of Effect that I often observe at the JMT Mind Gym. Many clients come to us struggling with bad habits or addictions. I frequently ask them to identify the positive outcomes of these behaviors they wish to change.

Surprisingly, when asked, clients often say they don’t enjoy their vices. Yet, the benefits of these behaviours usually outweigh their negative aspects, which is why people continue them. The challenge is that we are often aware of the downsides of our vices but blind to their pleasant consequences.

If you find yourself facing similar challenges with habits or behaviors, consider exploring the Law of Effect. Ask yourself what benefits you gain from your vices and try to list at least 50 of them. You might be surprised by the positive aspects that reinforce these behaviours.