What is 'operant conditioning'?

Operant conditioning is a fundamental concept in behavioral psychology, particularly associated with B.F. Skinner. It refers to a form of learning where behaviors are modified based on their consequences. When a behavior is followed by a reinforcement, such as a reward, it is more likely to be repeated in the future. Conversely, if a behavior is followed by a punishment or negative outcome, it is less likely to occur again. This process emphasizes the role of consequences in shaping behavior and demonstrates how individuals learn through interaction with their environment.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of operant conditioning. The first option describes passive observation, which aligns more with classical conditioning or observational learning. The third option focuses on cognitive development, which encompasses theories like those proposed by Piaget, diverting from the essence of behaviorist approaches. The fourth option mentions observational learning, which is distinct from operant conditioning as it does not inherently involve consequences influencing a learner's behavior.