Final answer:
Cognitive psychology explores how thought influences behavior and incorporates the concept of reciprocal determinism, illustrating the interconnectedness of cognition, behavior, and the environment according to Albert Bandura's social-cognitive theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognitive psychology is a branch of psychology focused on understanding how human cognition, or thinking, influences behavior and vice-versa. According to Albert Bandura, the principle of reciprocal determinism applies, where cognition influences behavior, which in turn affects the environment (Option b). This concept indicates that cognitive processes, behavior, and context are intertwined, with each aspect having an impact on and being affected by the others. This framework allows for greater variability in personality over time compared to theories like Freud's, which suggest that personality is fixed in childhood. Bandura's social-cognitive theory integrates learning and cognition as significant components in personality development, differing from Skinner's behaviorist approach.
Reciprocal determinism is integral to the understanding of observational learning and self-efficacy. Both these concepts emphasize that personal cognitive factors, like confidence in one's abilities and the observation of others, can affect behavior. Cognitive psychology is not just concerned with the overt actions but also the underlying cognitive mechanisms that shape how we act and interact with our environment. The cognitive revolution has shifted the focus of psychology back to these mental processes, highlighting the collaborative nature of cognitive psychological research.