Voluntary behavior, to Skinner, was _____ behavior.

• A. unconditioned
• B. punishable
• C. conditioned
• D. operant

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: B.F. Skinner is a well-known psychologist who developed the theory of operant conditioning, which is a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior.
2. Identify the key term: The problem is asking about 'voluntary behavior' in the context of Skinner's theory.
3. Recall Skinner's theory: In operant conditioning, 'operant' refers to any behavior that is voluntary and can be influenced by reinforcement or punishment.
4. Differentiate between terms: 'Unconditioned' typically refers to responses that are natural and not learned, 'punishable' refers to behaviors that can be decreased through punishment, and 'conditioned' often relates to classical conditioning, not operant.
5. Conclude with the correct term: Based on Skinner's theory, voluntary behavior is best described as 'operant' behavior, as it is subject to reinforcement and punishment.