Which of the following best describes the concept of reciprocal determinism in psychology?

• A. It is the theory that emotions are determined solely by physiological arousal.
• B. It is the idea that behavior, personal factors, and the environment all influence each other in a continuous loop.
• C. It is the concept that unconscious motives are the primary drivers of emotional responses.
• D. It is the belief that environmental factors alone shape an individual's behavior.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key components mentioned in the concept of reciprocal determinism: behavior, personal factors, and the environment.
2. Understand that reciprocal determinism refers to the dynamic and continuous interaction between these three components, where each influences and is influenced by the others.
3. Recognize that this concept was introduced by psychologist Albert Bandura as part of social cognitive theory to explain how people and their environments interact.
4. Compare the given options to see which one captures this mutual influence and continuous loop among behavior, personal factors, and environment.
5. Conclude that the best description is the one stating that behavior, personal factors, and the environment all influence each other in a continuous loop.