What does the Cognitive Theory primarily focus on in terms of behavior?

The Cognitive Theory primarily focuses on the mental processes involved in understanding and changing behavior. It emphasizes how individuals think, perceive, and interpret their experiences, which in turn influences their actions. When considering the maintenance of behavior, the Cognitive Theory explores how beliefs, attitudes, and thought patterns impact the continuation of certain behaviors over time.

For example, a person who believes that a healthy lifestyle leads to better health outcomes is more likely to maintain habits such as regular exercise and nutritious eating. The Cognitive Theory suggests that cognitive processes, including how one evaluates their progress and how they cope with challenges, are critical to sustaining behavior changes in the long term.

In contrast, other options like subconscious habits, external rewards, and biological determinants do not align with the core principles of Cognitive Theory. Subconscious habits might relate more closely to behavioral psychology, while external rewards are more aligned with theories of operant conditioning. Biological determinants pertain to physical or genetic influences on behavior rather than cognitive processes.