AP Psychology Practice Test

Which type of learning is characterized by behavior being strengthened if followed by reinforcement or diminished if followed by punishment?

1. Operant conditioning

2. Classical conditioning

3. Generalization

4. Discrimination

The correct answer is: Operant conditioning

Operant conditioning is the type of learning in which behavior is influenced by its consequences. When a behavior is followed by reinforcement, it is more likely to be repeated in the future because the reinforcement increases the likelihood of that behavior. On the other hand, if a behavior is followed by punishment, it is less likely to occur in the future, as the punishment diminishes the behavior. This process relies heavily on the outcome of actions, making it distinct from other forms of learning. In contrast, classical conditioning involves associating an involuntary response with a stimulus, generalization refers to responding similarly to similar stimuli, and discrimination involves distinguishing between different stimuli. The focus in operant conditioning is explicitly on how reinforcement and punishment shape behavior, defining its unique role in the learning process.