Which of the following best describes a core principle of behaviorism in psychology?

• A. Behavior is a result of innate biological instincts that cannot be changed by experience.
• B. Behavior is determined mainly by unconscious motives and early childhood experiences.
• C. Behavior is primarily shaped and maintained by environmental consequences such as reinforcement and punishment.
• D. Behavior is best understood by analyzing a person's thoughts and feelings.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the main focus of behaviorism in psychology, which emphasizes observable behaviors rather than internal mental states.
2. Understand that behaviorism posits behavior is learned and influenced by the environment, particularly through consequences like reinforcement and punishment.
3. Recognize that behaviorism does not attribute behavior to innate biological instincts or unconscious motives, but rather to external environmental factors.
4. Compare the given options to see which aligns with the principle that behavior is shaped and maintained by environmental consequences.
5. Conclude that the option stating 'Behavior is primarily shaped and maintained by environmental consequences such as reinforcement and punishment' best describes the core principle of behaviorism.