What aspect of student behavior did B.F. Skinner believe could be changed through reinforcement?

• A. Attention seeking
• B. Positive behavior
• C. Revenge motives
• D. Desire for power

Answer: (B)

B.F. Skinner, a prominent behaviorist, focused on how behaviors could be modified through the principles of operant conditioning, which includes reinforcement. He believed that positive behavior could be encouraged by providing reinforcement—this could be in the form of rewards or praise when a desired behavior is exhibited. This approach is based on the premise that behaviors followed by positive consequences are more likely to be repeated in the future.

In the context of the question, Skinner's theory emphasizes not just recognition of positive behavior itself but rather the systematic approach of reinforcing it to create a conducive learning environment. This aligns with his broader advocacy for shaping behavior over time through consistent reinforcement strategies, thereby fostering a positive learning atmosphere.

While attention-seeking, revenge motives, and desire for power are aspects of behavior that may exist in students, they do not directly align with Skinner’s principles of reinforcement aimed at enhancing positive behaviors. Skinner's focus is primarily on observable actions that can be influenced by reinforcement rather than intrinsic motives or unobservable emotions related to those other behaviors. Thus, the aspect of positive behavior is what Skinner believed could be actively changed through effective reinforcement techniques.