Why Do We Repeat the Same Mistakes? A Psychological Perspective Based on B.F. Skinner’s Experiment Introduction Many people find themselves repeating the same mistakes despite negative consequences. This phenomenon raises an important psychological question: why do humans continue behaviors that harm them or lead to failure? From a psychological perspective, repeating mistakes is not a sign of weakness or lack of intelligence. Instead, it is often the result of learned behavior, reinforcement, and unconscious patterns. One of the most influential explanations for this behavior comes from the work of the American psychologist Burrhus Frederic Skinner (B.F. Skinner) and his theory of operant conditioning. The Psychologist: B.F. Skinner B.F. Skinner (1904–1990) was an American psychologist and one of the most influential figures in the school of behaviorism. He believed that human behavior is shaped and maintained by its consequences. According to Skinner, behaviors that are followed by rewards are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors followed by punishment tend to disappear. His work shifted psychology’s focus from internal thoughts to observable behavior. The Experiment: The Skinner Box In his famous experiments, Skinner designed a controlled environment known as the Skinner Box. Inside the box, an animal such as a rat or a pigeon was placed with a lever or button connected to a food dispenser. When the animal accidentally pressed the lever, food was released. Over time, the animal learned that pressing the lever resulted in a reward. Even when rewards were given irregularly, the behavior continued and became stronger. Results and Psychological Explanation The results of Skinner’s experiment showed that intermittent reinforcement makes behavior highly resistant to change. This helps explain why humans repeat mistakes such as unhealthy relationships or harmful habits. The brain focuses on occasional rewards rather than repeated failures, which keeps the behavior alive. Emotional comfort, attention, or hope can all act as powerful reinforcers. Conclusion Skinner’s theory demonstrates that people repeat mistakes not because they want to fail, but because their behavior has been conditioned by reinforcement. Understanding this process is the first step toward change. When individuals become aware of the hidden rewards behind their actions, they gain the ability to replace negative patterns with healthier and more productive behaviors.