Correct Answer:
B. To reinforce desirable behavior and reduce undesirable behavior
Explanation:
The correct answer is To reinforce desirable behavior and reduce undesirable behavior because behavior modification operates on the foundational principles of operant conditioning, focusing on systematically shifting a student's observable habits toward productive learning actions.
- To reinforce desirable behavior and reduce undesirable behavior: This is the correct choice. Grounded in B.F. Skinner's behavioral models, this methodology relies on manipulating environmental consequences. By providing positive reinforcers (like praise or tokens) when a student exhibits positive actions, the likelihood of those actions recurring increases. Simultaneously, applying negative consequences or withholding rewards (extinction) systematically weakens disruptive behaviors.
- Incorrect Options:
- To punish all undesirable behavior: This is incorrect. Over-relying on punishment fails to teach students alternative, positive replacement behaviors and damages the teacher-student relationship.
- To ignore all student behavior: This is incorrect. While targeted ignoring is a distinct sub-technique used to eliminate attention-seeking actions, ignoring all behavior entirely leads to an unmanaged classroom and chaotic learning conditions.
- To reward every student equally: This is incorrect. Reinforcement must be specific, individualized, and contingently earned based on observed actions rather than distributed as a generic blanket reward.