According to selectionism, what drives the evolution of behavior?

The correct answer highlights the relationship between natural selection and adaptive behavior within the framework of selectionism. Selectionism posits that behaviors, like biological traits, are influenced by their consequences in the environment. Behaviors that lead to favorable outcomes are more likely to be repeated and reinforced, while those that do not yield helpful results may diminish over time. This process mirrors natural selection, where advantageous traits become more prevalent within a population due to their contribution to survival and reproduction.

In this context, natural selection explains how behaviors evolve based on their effectiveness in navigating challenges and opportunities within an environment. Adaptation refers to the process by which behaviors that facilitate better interaction with the environment become integrated into an individual's repertoire, thus enhancing their ability to thrive. This evolutionary perspective is foundational in the field of applied behavior analysis, as it encourages understanding behavior in relation to environmental influences and outcomes rather than attributing changes solely to chance, social pressures, or individual whims.