What is a key characteristic of operant conditioning?

A key characteristic of operant conditioning is learning through consequences. This concept emphasizes how behaviors can be modified based on the consequences that follow them. In operant conditioning, behaviors that are followed by positive outcomes tend to be reinforced and become more likely to occur in the future, while those followed by negative outcomes may diminish in frequency. This process involves reinforcement (which increases behavior) and punishment (which decreases behavior), illustrating how the environment can shape individual behavior based on the rewards or penalties associated with specific actions.

The focus on consequences distinguishes operant conditioning from other forms of learning, such as classical conditioning, which relies on the association of stimuli rather than the outcomes of behavior. This fundamental aspect allows for a wide range of applications, from training animals to modifying human behavior in educational and therapeutic settings.