What concept explains the repetition of behaviors due to positive reinforcement?

The repetition of behaviors due to positive reinforcement is best explained by the concept of operant conditioning. This psychological principle was developed by B.F. Skinner, highlighting how behaviors can be shaped through reinforcement or punishment. In operant conditioning, when a behavior is followed by a positive consequence, or reinforcement, it increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future. For instance, if a student studies hard and receives praise or good grades, the positive reinforcement encourages that student to continue studying diligently.

Other concepts listed do not focus on the role of reinforcement in the same way. Classical conditioning involves learning through association between two stimuli, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus, but it does not emphasize behavior repetition based on reinforcement. Modeling refers to learning behaviors by observing and imitating others, lacking the direct connection to reinforcement as seen in operant conditioning. Conditioned cooperation is a less established term that doesn’t directly relate to the principles of reinforcement in behavior.