What is the main focus of behavioralism in learning theories?

Behavioralism, as a school of thought in learning theories, primarily focuses on the concept of operant conditioning. This theory, developed by B.F. Skinner, emphasizes the role of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. In operant conditioning, behaviors are learned or modified based on the consequences that follow them: positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while punishment diminishes it.

Operant conditioning places importance on observable behaviors rather than internal thoughts or feelings, which aligns with the behaviorist perspective that all behaviors are learned through interaction with the environment. This approach has been extensively applied in various educational settings and therapy techniques to promote learning and behavior modification.

The other options, while significant in their own right, do not encapsulate the main focus of behavioralism in learning theories. Classical conditioning, for example, is a different process involving the association of two stimuli, while cognitive development and social interactions highlight broader psychological and developmental concerns that are not solely rooted in behaviorist principles.