BEHAVIORISM

Definition

  • Behaviorism → Learning theory: behavior = acquired through conditioning (interaction with environment).

  • Behavior = shaped by environmental stimuli.

Basic Assumptions

  • All behavior = learned from environment.

  • Focus = environmental factors (not innate traits).

  • Behavior = stimulus → response.

  • Learning through classical & operant conditioning.

  • Mind = tabula rasa (blank slate) at birth.

Behavioral Psychology

  • Only observable behavior should be studied.

  • Cognition, emotions, mood = too subjective.

  • Strict behaviorists: anyone can be trained (given right conditioning, within physical limits).

Types of Behaviorism

  1. Methodological Behaviorism – John Watson; only observable behavior counts; mental states ignored.

  2. Radical Behaviorism – B. F. Skinner; behavior shaped by past & present environment + reinforcement (positive/negative).

  • Methodological Behaviorism: Only look at what people do.

  • Radical Behaviorism: Look at what people do and how rewards or punishments influence it.

Applications of Behaviorism

Education

  • Teachers use reinforcement (praise, rewards, repetition “skill and drill”).

  • Lesson design: operant conditioning (encouragement) or classical conditioning (stimulating environment).

Research

  • Strength = measurable, observable data.

Mental Health

  • Basis of behavioral therapy (autism, schizophrenia, maladaptive behaviors).

  • Techniques: behavioral intervention, behavior analysis, token economies, discrete trial training.

FAQs

  • Founder: John B. Watson.

  • Education use: reinforcement (praise, prizes, tests).

  • Difference from Psychoanalysis:

    • Behaviorism = behavior from external environment/stimuli.

    • Psychoanalysis = behavior from internal unconscious desires.