Which statement best describes the main idea of operant conditioning?

• A. Behavior is determined solely by genetic factors.
• B. Behavior is shaped and maintained by its consequences, such as rewards and punishments.
• C. Learning occurs through association between two stimuli presented together.
• D. Memory is improved by repeating information over time.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept in the question, which is 'operant conditioning.'
2. Recall that operant conditioning is a learning process where behavior is influenced by the consequences that follow it.
3. Understand that these consequences can be rewards (which increase the likelihood of the behavior) or punishments (which decrease it).
4. Compare each statement to this definition to see which one aligns best with the idea of behavior being shaped by consequences.
5. Conclude that the statement 'Behavior is shaped and maintained by its consequences, such as rewards and punishments' best describes operant conditioning.