What is an example of an operant conditioning technique?

Operant conditioning techniques involve modifying behavior through the use of rewards (reinforcement) or punishments. In this context, providing a reward for desired behavior changes is a clear example of operant conditioning, as it directly reinforces behaviors that you want to increase. For instance, if a student completes their homework on time and receives praise or a small prize, the positive reinforcement encourages the student to continue this behavior in the future.

In contrast, the other options describe different psychological concepts. Tim Pavlov's dog experiment relates to classical conditioning, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus, leading to a conditioned response. Cognitive therapy focuses on changing thought patterns as a way to influence emotions and behaviors but does not inherently involve reinforcement. Teaching through observation and imitation refers to social learning theory, where behavior is learned through watching and mimicking others, without the direct application of reinforcement or punishment as seen in operant conditioning.