Reinforcement theory takes a behavioristic view, arguing that reinforcement conditions behavior. Reinforcement theorists see behavior as environmentally caused. Reinforcement theory ignores the inner state of the individual and concentrates solely on what happens when they take some action. Because it does not concern itself with what initiates behavior, it is not, strictly speaking, a theory of motivation. But it does provide a powerful means of analyzing what controls behavior.

Operant conditioning theory, probably the most relevant component of reinforcement theory for management, argues that people learn to behave to get something they want or to avoid something they don’t want. Unlike reflexive or unlearned behavior, operant behavior is influenced by the reinforcement or lack of reinforcement brought about by consequences. Reinforcement strengthens a behavior and increases the likelihood it will be repeated. People learn to associate stimulus and response, but their conscious awareness of this is irrelevant.