Which of the following is a key principle of behaviorism?

The correct answer emphasizes the concept of conditioning as a fundamental principle of behaviorism. Behaviorism is a psychological perspective that focuses on observable behaviors rather than internal states like thoughts and emotions. It asserts that behaviors can be learned or modified through interaction with the environment, primarily through processes like classical conditioning and operant conditioning.

In classical conditioning, for instance, a stimulus is paired with a response to form a learned behavior, as famously demonstrated by Pavlov's experiments with dogs. In operant conditioning, which was a key part of B.F. Skinner's theories, behaviors are influenced through rewards (reinforcement) or consequences (punishment).

This principle highlights the idea that learning is a response to external stimuli, making it distinct from other educational philosophies emphasizing inquiry, collaboration, or personal experience. These other approaches may involve exploration, social interaction, or individual significance in the learning process, but they do not capture the core focus of behaviorism on conditioning responses to stimuli.