Which therapy uses observable behavior and reinforcement to modify actions?

• A. Cognitive Therapy
• B. Humanistic Therapy
• C. Psychodynamic Therapy
• D. Behavioral Therapy

Answer: (D)

The main concept here is shaping behavior through observable actions and reinforcement. Behavioral Therapy focuses on what can be seen and measured, using rewards or punishments to increase or decrease specific actions. This relies on operant conditioning, where consistent reinforcement strengthens desired behaviors over time. In practice, therapists arrange the environment to reward appropriate actions, helping clients develop new, more adaptive patterns. By contrast, cognitive therapy targets changing thoughts and beliefs, humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth and self-direction, and psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious motivations from past experiences. Because this question asks for a therapy that uses observable behavior and reinforcement to modify actions, Behavioral Therapy is the best fit.