Behaviorism & Psychology

Behaviorism

Behaviorism is a psychological theory that suggests human and animal behavior can be studied objectively through observable and predictable actions. This theory was first defined by John B. Watson in his psychology paper in 1913 .

Psychology

American psychologist B.F. Skinner defined behaviorism as a method for shaping desirable behavior through reinforcement. He argued that outward behaviors are determined by external forces, so internal factors like emotions or mental states are unnecessary . In education, the behaviorist model is divided into two types: classical conditioning and operant conditioning. South African psychiatrist Joseph Wolpe viewed behaviorism in education as one of the techniques in learning theory. Therefore, he believed that psychological therapy should focus on techniques like experimental extinction or reciprocal inhibition, which includes counterconditioning . Meanwhile, psychologist Hans Eysenck mentioned in his 1952 paper that the behaviorist model, which aligns with the scientific-practitioner model, should be considered important, especially compared to the existing psychoanalytic approach.

 

Modern Behaviorism

In modern times, traditional behaviorist theories are not only valued on their own but are also integrated with various related fields such as social learning theory, ethology, and ecological theories. These integrations have expanded and modified the original theories. Behavioral modification theories demonstrate that people can achieve better lives for themselves and others through future-oriented will and improvements in their environment. This shows the significance of behavior modification processes, where breaking down and modifying behavior into detailed units, and then reassembling them, can help design positive and cooperative behavioral changes toward set goals.

Key Theories

1. Classical Conditioning by Ivan Pavlov
2. Operant Conditioning by B.F. Skinner
3. Observational Learning by Albert Bandura

Albert Bandura’s social learning theory suggests that it is effective to consider both behaviorist approaches like classical and operant conditioning and cognitive learning theories together. This perspective indicates that just as physiological and neurological mechanisms play an essential role in behaviorist psychology, they also hold efficient possibilities in cognitive psychology.

Behaviorism in Economics

Behaviorism has also been proposed in economics, known as behavioral economics. American economist Herbert Simon researched behaviorism in economics, focusing on approaches, decision-making processes, rational processes, and organizational theory, which influenced political science and bureaucracy.