What is operant conditioning primarily concerned with?

Operant conditioning is a learning principle developed by B.F. Skinner that focuses specifically on how behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them. This concept emphasizes the role of positive and negative reinforcement in shaping behavior. Positive reinforcement involves providing a rewarding stimulus after a desired behavior is exhibited, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. On the other hand, negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus following a desired behavior, also encouraging the repetition of that behavior.

This conditioning process is not just about observing others or teaching, nor is it solely about the practice or repetition of tasks. Instead, it centers on how the environment's feedback—through rewards or punishments—affects an individual's behavior. The essence of operant conditioning is the connection between behavior and its consequences, making positive and negative reinforcement the core components of this learning process.