The heart of operant conditioning is the effect of _________ on behavior.

• A. biology
• B. reflexes
• C. consequences
• D. observation

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of operant conditioning: It is a learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.
2. Identify the key components of operant conditioning: These include reinforcement (positive or negative) and punishment (positive or negative), which are used to increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior.
3. Recognize the role of consequences in operant conditioning: Consequences are the outcomes or results that follow a behavior, and they play a crucial role in determining whether a behavior will be repeated.
4. Differentiate between reinforcement and punishment: Reinforcement aims to increase behavior, while punishment aims to decrease behavior. Both are types of consequences.
5. Apply this understanding to the problem: The heart of operant conditioning is the effect of consequences on behavior, as they determine whether a behavior is likely to be repeated or not.