Behavior modification is associated with which theorists?

Behavior modification is associated with which theorists?

• A. Pavlov and Skinner
• B. Freud and Jung
• C. Erikson and Piaget
• D. Rogers and Maslow

Answer: (A)

Behavior modification relies on learning principles that shape behavior through the consequences that follow actions. The key figures are Pavlov, who showed classical conditioning by pairing a neutral stimulus with a reflexive response, and Skinner, who developed operant conditioning, where behaviors are increased or decreased based on reinforcement or punishment. In practice, behavior modification uses these ideas—reinforcement, punishment, shaping, and extinction—to encourage desirable behaviors and reduce problematic ones. Other theorists belong to different traditions: Freud and Jung focus on unconscious processes and personality development rather than observable behavior change; Erikson and Piaget emphasize developmental stages and cognitive progress; Rogers and Maslow are rooted in humanistic perspectives, stressing self-actualization and the client’s subjective experience.

Behavior modification relies on learning principles that shape behavior through the consequences that follow actions. The key figures are Pavlov, who showed classical conditioning by pairing a neutral stimulus with a reflexive response, and Skinner, who developed operant conditioning, where behaviors are increased or decreased based on reinforcement or punishment. In practice, behavior modification uses these ideas—reinforcement, punishment, shaping, and extinction—to encourage desirable behaviors and reduce problematic ones.

Other theorists belong to different traditions: Freud and Jung focus on unconscious processes and personality development rather than observable behavior change; Erikson and Piaget emphasize developmental stages and cognitive progress; Rogers and Maslow are rooted in humanistic perspectives, stressing self-actualization and the client’s subjective experience.