Which approach focuses on observable behaviors and environmental influences?

The Behavioral Approach is centered on the study of observable behaviors rather than mental processes or internal states. This approach emphasizes the influence of environmental factors on behavior, positing that behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment. It suggests that external stimuli can lead to specific responses, which can be observed and measured. This perspective was heavily influenced by early psychologists such as John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner, who conducted extensive research on conditioning and reinforcement in behaviors.

By focusing solely on behaviors that can be seen and quantified, the Behavioral Approach distinguishes itself from other psychological perspectives. For instance, the Humanistic Approach prioritizes personal growth and the subjective experience of individuals, emphasizing feelings and self-actualization, which are not directly observable. The Cognitive Approach, on the other hand, studies mental processes such as thinking, memory, and perception, which involve internal mental states rather than purely observable behaviors. The Psychodynamic Approach investigates unconscious processes and childhood experiences, which also take focus away from observable actions.

In summary, the Behavioral Approach is distinguished by its commitment to understanding how observable behaviors are shaped by environmental influences, making it the correct choice in this context.