Questions: What motivation theory posits that people learn to behave in a particular fashion as a result of the consequences that followed their past behaviors? Operant conditioning theory Consequences theory Reinforcement theory School of hard knocks theory

The answer is Operant conditioning theory.

Operant conditioning theory, developed by B.F. Skinner, posits that behavior is learned and modified through the use of rewards and punishments. This theory suggests that the consequences of a behavior influence the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future. Positive reinforcement strengthens a behavior by providing a desirable consequence, while negative reinforcement strengthens behavior by removing an undesirable consequence. Punishment, on the other hand, aims to decrease the likelihood of a behavior by introducing an adverse consequence.

There is no widely recognized "Consequences theory" in the context of motivation or learning theories. While consequences are a key component of operant conditioning, this option does not refer to a specific theory.

Reinforcement theory is closely related to operant conditioning and is often used interchangeably. It focuses on how the use of reinforcements (positive or negative) can increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior. However, the term "operant conditioning" is more commonly used to describe the comprehensive theory developed by Skinner.

The "School of hard knocks" is an informal expression that refers to learning through difficult experiences rather than formal education. It is not a recognized theory in psychology or motivation.