Which aspect of learning focuses on reinforcement and punishment?

The correct answer highlights Behaviorism, which is a school of thought in psychology that emphasizes the role of external stimuli in shaping behavior through mechanisms such as reinforcement and punishment. This approach posits that learning occurs as a response to environmental stimuli, where behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them.

In Behaviorism, reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while punishment decreases it. These principles are fundamental to understanding how behaviors can be modified and learned, providing a framework for various applications, such as in educational settings and behavior modification programs.

The other options focus on different aspects of development and learning. Cognitive development pertains to the mental processes involved in learning, such as thinking, problem-solving, and memory. Social learning emphasizes the role of observing others and modeling behaviors rather than behavior modification through reinforcement or punishment. Ecological systems theory examines the complex interactions between individuals and their environments, focusing on the broader context in which learning and development occur, rather than the direct mechanisms of behavior change.