The spelling of the word "behavioristic" can be confusing due to the multiple ways to spell the root word, "behavior". However, the correct spelling is "-ior-" as opposed to "-our-". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /bɪˌheɪvɪərˈɪstɪk/, with the "i" in the second syllable representing the "i" in "sit" and the "e" in the third syllable representing the "e" in "red". This word refers to the study or analysis of behavior, typically in relation to psychology or animal behavior.
Behavioristic refers to an approach or perspective in psychology that emphasizes the study of observable behavior rather than mental processes or subjective experiences. It is a term derived from behaviorism, a theory that was popularized by American psychologist John B. Watson in the early 20th century. Behaviorism asserts that psychology should only focus on measurable and observable behaviors, disregarding internal states such as thoughts, emotions, or mental processes, which are considered as non-scientific.
The behavioristic perspective views behavior as a product of external stimuli and the organism's response to those stimuli. It emphasizes the importance of studying and analyzing the environmental factors that shape and influence behavior. Behavioristic theories often emphasize the role of conditioning and reinforcement in explaining behavior, suggesting that human behavior is primarily a result of learned associations between specific stimuli and responses.
This approach is guided by the belief that through the study of observable behavior, one can understand and predict human behavior, regardless of individual differences or internal thought processes. Behavioristic theories have been influential in various fields, including education, therapy, and even animal training, as they provide practical strategies for behavior modification and learning.
In summary, behavioristic pertains to an approach in psychology that focuses on studying measurable and observable behavior, while disregarding mental processes or subjective experiences. It emphasizes the role of external stimuli and the organism's response to those stimuli in shaping behavior.
The term "behavioristic" is derived from the word "behaviorism". The word "behaviorism" was coined in the early 20th century by the American psychologist John B. Watson, who was one of the founders of behaviorist psychology. Behaviorism is a theory that focuses on observable behavior and rejects the study of subjective mental states or processes. The suffix "-istic" in behavioristic is added to the word "behavior" to form an adjective, denoting something related to or characteristic of behaviorism.