Which statement provides an example of reciprocal determinism?
A) A child becomes fearful of snakes after being bitten by one.
B) A child who tends to treat others with kindness influences her peers' behavior, which in turn influences the child.
C) A child with poor academic self-efficacy is more likely than other children to withdraw from school work.
D) A child continues to throw temper tantrums because he gets what he wants as a result.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reciprocal determinism refers to the dynamic interaction between a person's behavior, personal factors (such as thoughts and emotions) and the environment. Choice B provides an example of how a child's behavior (treating others with kindness) can influence the behavior of others (peers), which in turn can influence the child's behavior. This demonstrates the reciprocal relationship between the child's behavior and the environment. Choices A, C, and D only show one way causality between behavior and the environment, and do not demonstrate reciprocal determinism.

Which Statement Provides an Example of Reciprocal Determinism