Which theory argues that psychology should study observable behavior and disregard mental states?

Which theory argues that psychology should study observable behavior and disregard mental states?

• A. Behaviorism
• B. Psychoanalysis
• C. Cognitivism
• D. Humanism

Answer: (A)

This question tests the idea that psychology should be grounded in observable behavior. Behaviorism holds that psychology should study outward, measurable actions and responses, and it argues that mental states—like thoughts and feelings—are either unobservable or not treatable as scientific data. By focusing on stimulus–response relationships and the effects of reinforcement and punishment, behaviorism aims for objective, quantifiable findings. This perspective was developed by thinkers such as John Watson and later refined by B.F. Skinner, who argued that understanding behavior is enough to explain psychological phenomena. In contrast, psychoanalysis centers on unconscious drives and internal conflicts, cognitivism emphasizes mental processes like memory and problem-solving, and humanism highlights subjective experience and personal growth. Because this item specifies studying observable behavior and disregarding mental states, behaviorism is the best fit.

This question tests the idea that psychology should be grounded in observable behavior. Behaviorism holds that psychology should study outward, measurable actions and responses, and it argues that mental states—like thoughts and feelings—are either unobservable or not treatable as scientific data. By focusing on stimulus–response relationships and the effects of reinforcement and punishment, behaviorism aims for objective, quantifiable findings. This perspective was developed by thinkers such as John Watson and later refined by B.F. Skinner, who argued that understanding behavior is enough to explain psychological phenomena. In contrast, psychoanalysis centers on unconscious drives and internal conflicts, cognitivism emphasizes mental processes like memory and problem-solving, and humanism highlights subjective experience and personal growth. Because this item specifies studying observable behavior and disregarding mental states, behaviorism is the best fit.