Which type of learning is characterized by behaving to gain rewards or avoid punishments?

Operant conditioning is a type of learning where behavior is influenced by the consequences that follow it. In this framework, individuals learn to perform certain actions to achieve rewards or to avoid punishments. For instance, a student may study hard to receive praise or avoid a poor grade, demonstrating that the behavior of studying is reinforced by positive outcomes.

In operant conditioning, reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated, while punishment decreases it. This concept was developed by B.F. Skinner, who used techniques such as positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement to shape behavior.

In contrast to operant conditioning, classical conditioning involves associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response, typically without the dynamics of rewards or punishments. Social learning refers to acquiring behaviors by observing others, emphasizing the role of modeling rather than direct reinforcement. Observational learning is similar, focusing on learning through seeing and imitating others' behaviors, rather than directly acting to receive rewards or avoid punishments.

Thus, operant conditioning distinctly focuses on the role of consequences in shaping behaviors, making it the correct answer to the question.