Define behaviorism and explain who founded this thought?

Subject : Social Studies

Question:

Define behaviorism and explain who founded this school of thought.

Expert Verified Solution:

Behaviorism is a psychological approach that focuses on the study of observable behaviors rather than internal mental states. It is based on the principle that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, which occurs through interaction with the environment. Behaviorists believe that our responses to environmental stimuli shape our actions.

The school of thought known as behaviorism was founded by John B. Watson in the early 20th century. Watson emphasized the importance of studying behavior in a scientific and objective manner, rejecting introspective methods that focused on consciousness. His work laid the foundation for further developments in behaviorism, including the work of B.F. Skinner, who expanded on Watson’s theories with his research on operant conditioning.

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