In the context of behaviorism, what is the definition of behavior modification as used in AP Psychology?

• A. A technique that uses principles of learning, such as reinforcement and punishment, to change maladaptive behaviors
• B. A process of uncovering unconscious motives behind behavior through dream analysis
• C. A strategy for increasing intelligence through cognitive training exercises
• D. A method of improving memory by using mnemonic devices and rehearsal

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept in the question: behavior modification within the framework of behaviorism in AP Psychology.
2. Recall that behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and how they can be influenced by the environment, particularly through learning principles.
3. Understand that behavior modification involves applying these learning principles, such as reinforcement (which increases behavior) and punishment (which decreases behavior), to change behaviors.
4. Recognize that behavior modification specifically targets maladaptive or undesirable behaviors to replace them with more adaptive ones.
5. Eliminate options that refer to unconscious motives, intelligence training, or memory improvement, as these do not align with the behaviorist approach to behavior modification.