Operant conditioning is a type of learning that focuses on how an individual's behavior is influenced by the consequences of their actions. This theory suggests that behavior can be enhanced or reduced by either positive or negative reinforcement and punishment.

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding a desired behavior, while negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus. Punishment, on the other hand, aims to reduce unwanted behavior by adding an adverse consequence or removing a desired stimulus. Operant conditioning allows people to learn to associate their actions with specific outcomes, leading to a change in behavior over time. This conditioning process can be seen in various aspects of everyday life, from classroom strategies to shaping animal behavior.

Understanding the principles of operant conditioning can provide valuable information about shaping and modifying behavior and has practical applications in areas such as education and psychology.

One of the central concepts of Skinner's theory is reinforcement. He suggested that behavior is reinforced by positive consequences, such as rewards, which increase the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated. Punishment and negative consequences also reduce the likelihood of repeating the behavior. Skinner's principles of reinforcement were crucial to developing an understanding of how behavior can be shaped and controlled.