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Average person Quote by Thomas Gilovich

“Psychologists have known for some time that rewarding desirable responses is generally more effective in shaping behavior than punishing undesirable responses.19 However, the average person tends to find this fact surprising, and punishment has been the preferred reinforcer for the majority of…” quote by Thomas Gilovich
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““Psychologists have known for some time that rewarding desirable responses is generally more effective in shaping behavior than punishing undesirable responses.19 However, the average person tends to find this fact surprising, and punishment has been the preferred reinforcer for the majority of parents in both modern society19 and in earlier periods.””

Thomas Gilovich

About This Quote

Source Book: The Science of Influence, 2010

Rewarding desired behavior is more effective than punishment, though many parents still favor punishment.

In simple terms: Rewards work better than punishments, but people often think otherwise.

Key Takeaway

Prefer positive reinforcement.

Themes

parenting behavior psychology

Mood

analytical informative

Type

educational psychological

When to use this quote

  • child rearing
  • education
  • workplace management

Key Concepts

reinforcement theory behavior modification

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we default to punishment?
  • How can we shift to reward‑based systems?
A Different Perspective

Cultural norms may resist change.

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