Which type of conditioning involves learning through the consequence of behavior?

Operant conditioning is a type of learning where behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them. This concept is largely attributed to B.F. Skinner, who demonstrated that behaviors could be modified through reinforcement (which increases behavior) or punishment (which decreases behavior). In operant conditioning, individuals learn to associate their actions with specific outcomes, which can be either positive or negative.

For example, if a child receives praise for completing their homework, they may be more likely to complete their homework in the future, demonstrating that the positive consequence (praise) reinforces the behavior (completing homework). Conversely, if a child receives a timeout for misbehavior, they are likely to avoid that behavior in the future due to the negative consequence (timeout).

The other options refer to different types of conditioning. Classical conditioning involves learning through association between two stimuli, rather than through the consequences of a behavior. Behavioral conditioning is a broader term that may encompass both classical and operant conditioning without specifically focusing on consequences. Emotional conditioning pertains to the association between an emotional response and a stimulus, which is also distinct from the operant framework. Thus, operant conditioning is the correct answer as it directly relates to learning through the consequences of behavior.