Which psychological approach emphasizes observable behavior?

The emphasis on observable behavior is a hallmark of behaviorism, which is a psychological approach that focuses on studying the actions and reactions of individuals in response to different stimuli. Behaviorists argue that psychology should be based on what can be directly observed and measured, rather than on internal mental processes or feelings that can be subjective and difficult to quantify. This perspective was championed by key figures such as John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner, who believed that all behaviors are learned through interaction with the environment and can be modified through reinforcement and punishment.

In contrast, other approaches, like humanistic psychology, focus on individual potential and personal growth, emphasizing subjective experiences rather than just behavior. Cognitive psychology concentrates on mental processes such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving, which are not directly observable. Psychodynamic theory delves into the unconscious mind and how it influences behavior, highlighting internal conflicts and motivations that also extend beyond observable actions. Thus, the primary focus of behaviorism on observable and measurable behavior distinguishes it clearly from these other psychological approaches.