Final answer:
The cognitive information-processing theory explains violent behavior as a result of cognitive distortions, emphasizing that thought processes and learning from the environment influence behaviors like violence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best describes the way that cognitive information-processing theory explains violent behavior is: B) Violent behavior is a result of cognitive distortions.
Cognitive learning occurs through the interaction of behavioral patterns and cognitive processes like thinking and reasoning. Albert Bandura's social-cognitive theory underlines the importance of learning and cognition, where not only environmental factors but also cognitive factors like beliefs, expectations, and personality characteristics shape one's behavior. According to Bandura, violent behavior could be explained by the reciprocal interaction between these factors, where cognitive distortions—like believing violence to be a viable solution or having increased cognitive accessibility to violent behaviors—can lead to violent actions.
Approaches such as observational learning also play a significant role, as demonstrated by Bandura's studies showing that people can learn through observing models without direct reinforcement. This suggests a complex relationship where cognitive processes and the environment contribute to the development of behaviors, including violent ones.