What is a defining feature of the behaviorist approach introduced by John Watson?

What is a defining feature of the behaviorist approach introduced by John Watson?

• A. Focus on cognitive processes
• B. Emphasis on observable behavior
• C. Study of emotional responses
• D. Analysis of unconscious motives

Answer: (B)

The behaviorist approach introduced by John Watson is characterized by an emphasis on observable behavior. Watson argued that psychology should focus on what can be measured and observed rather than on internal thoughts, feelings, or motivations. He believed that behavior could be studied scientifically and that the external environment was critical in shaping behavior through conditioning. This perspective marked a significant shift away from other psychological theories that prioritized mental states or emotional responses, as well as analysis of unconscious motives, which are more aligned with psychoanalytic theory. By concentrating solely on observable behavior and the external stimuli that influence it, the behaviorist approach laid the groundwork for many experimental methods and practical applications in psychology.

The behaviorist approach introduced by John Watson is characterized by an emphasis on observable behavior. Watson argued that psychology should focus on what can be measured and observed rather than on internal thoughts, feelings, or motivations. He believed that behavior could be studied scientifically and that the external environment was critical in shaping behavior through conditioning. This perspective marked a significant shift away from other psychological theories that prioritized mental states or emotional responses, as well as analysis of unconscious motives, which are more aligned with psychoanalytic theory. By concentrating solely on observable behavior and the external stimuli that influence it, the behaviorist approach laid the groundwork for many experimental methods and practical applications in psychology.