What Is Behaviorism?

Behaviorism is a theory of learning based on the idea that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, and conditioning occurs through interaction with the environment. Behaviorists believe that our actions are shaped by environmental stimuli. In simple terms, according to this school of thought, also known as behavioral psychology, behavior can be studied in a systematic and observable manner regardless of internal mental states. Behavioral theory also says that only
observable behavior should be studied, as cognition, emotions, and mood are far too subjective. Strict behaviorists believe that any person-regardless of genetic background, personality traits, and internal thoughts — can be trained to perform any task, within the limits of their physical capabilities. It only requires the right conditioning.

There are two main types of behaviorism used to describe how behavior is formed. Methodological behaviorism states that observable behavior should be studied scientifically and that mental states and cognitive processes don't add to the understanding of behavior. Methodological behaviorism aligns with Watson's ideologies and approach. Radical behaviorism is rooted in the theory that behavior can be understood by looking at one's past and present environment and the reinforcements within it, thereby influencing behavior either positively or negatively. This behavioral approach was created by the psychologist B.F. Skinner.

Classical conditioning is a technique frequently used in behavioral training in which a neutral stimulus is paired with a naturally occurring stimulus. Eventually, the neutral stimulus comes to evoke the same response as the naturally occurring stimulus, even without the naturally occurring stimulus presenting itself. Throughout the course of three distinet phases of classical conditioning, the associated stimulus becomes known as the conditioned stimulus and the learned behavior is known as the conditioned response.

Operant conditioning, sometimes referred to as instrumental conditioning, is a method of
learning that occurs through reinforcement and punishment. Through operant conditioning, an association is made between a behavior and a consequence for that behavior. This behavioral approach says that when a desirable result follows an action, the behavior becomes more likely to happen again in the future. Conversely, responses followed by adverse outcomes become less likely to reoccur.

While the behavioral approach might not be the dominant force that it once was, it has still had a major impact on our understanding of human psychology. The conditioning process alone has been used to understand many different types of behaviors, ranging from how people learn to how language develops. But perhaps the greatest contributions of behavioral psychology lie in its practical applications. Its techniques can play a powerful role in modifying problematic behavior and encouraging more positive, helpful responses. Outside of psychology, parents, teachers, animal trainers, and many others make use of basic behavioral principles to help teach new behaviors and discourage unwanted ones.

41. True (T), False (F) or Not Stated (NS)? 
Behaviourists believe that our actions are shaped by genetic factors.

46. True (T), False (F) or Not Stated (NS)? 
The conditioning process alone has been used to understand many different types of behaviours, ranging from how people learn to how people sleep.

48. True (T), False (F) or Not Stated (NS)? 
The conditioning process has only been used to understand language development.

49. What is the main principle behind classical conditioning?
A) The conditioned stimulus is removed before the response.
B) The conditioned response precedes the conditioned stimulus.
C) A neutral stimulus is paired with a naturally occurring stimulus.

50. True (T), False (F) or Not Stated (NS)? 
Behaviourists believe that our actions are shaped by internal thoughts.