Behaviorism focuses on making psychology an objective science

Subject : Science

Question: Behaviorism focuses on making psychology an objective science by

Select one:

a) studying how emotional responses influence behavior while deemphasizing the importance of the subconscious

b) studying implicit motivations for behavior through the use of implicit association tests

c) studying overt behavior and deemphasizing the importance of unobservable mental processes

d) studying the genetic basis for behavior and theorizing how instincts influence behavior

Expert Verified Solution:

Behaviorism focuses on making psychology an objective science by

C. studying overt behavior and deemphasizing the importance of unobservable mental processes

Explanation:

Behaviorism focuses on making psychology an objective science by studying overt behavior and deemphasizing the importance of unobservable mental processes. This approach to psychology emerged in the early 20th century, led by figures such as John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner, argued that psychology should concentrate on observable and measurable behaviors rather than internal mental states that cannot be seen or measured directly.

Behaviorists believe all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, which occurs through environmental interaction. Behaviorism aimed to establish psychology as a more scientific discipline by focusing on observable behaviors, similar to the natural sciences. This focus allowed researchers to conduct experiments and make predictions based on observable phenomena, thereby reducing subjectivity in psychological research.