According to Reinforcement Theory, behavior is primarily driven by:

Reinforcement Theory, rooted in the work of behaviorists like B.F. Skinner, posits that behavior is primarily driven by the consequences that follow it. In this context, expected outcomes refer to the anticipation of rewards or punishments as a result of specific behaviors, influencing whether those behaviors will be repeated in the future. If a behavior is followed by a positive outcome, it is more likely to be repeated, while if it is followed by a negative outcome, it is less likely to occur again. This principle underscores the notion that individuals make choices based on the expected benefits or drawbacks of their actions, driving behavioral adjustments over time.

Other options, while relevant to human behavior, do not capture the core mechanism of Reinforcement Theory. Natural instincts refer to innate biological drives that can influence behavior but do not account for the consequences of actions. Social approval might motivate some behavior, but it falls under a broader category that does not exclusively align with the principles established in Reinforcement Theory. Similarly, learned experiences play a role in modifying behavior but are more about the cumulative knowledge gained over time rather than the immediate expected outcomes of specific behaviors that drive choices in reinforcement contexts.