What central idea does behaviorism focus on?

Behaviorism concentrates on observable behaviors as the primary subject of study, positioning itself in contrast to theories that delve into internal mental processes such as thoughts and feelings. This school of thought emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction to introspective methods that emphasized the importance of subjective experiences.

By prioritizing observable behaviors, behaviorism allows for a more empirical and measurable approach to psychology. This focus enables researchers and practitioners to study how individuals interact with their environment and respond to stimuli, emphasizing the influence of reinforcement and conditioning on behavior. Techniques derived from behaviorist principles, such as operant conditioning and classical conditioning, are influential in various applications, including education, therapy, and behavior modification.

Other perspectives, such as psychoanalytic theories, focus on unconscious thoughts and feelings, while developmental theories explore stages of life and growth. Approaches that center on psychological disorders may consider symptoms and treatments but do not align with behaviorism's core premise of observing and understanding behaviors themselves. Thus, the essence of behaviorism lies firmly in its emphasis on what can be seen and measured rather than what may be internally experienced.