Which psychological approach focuses on observable behaviors rather than mental processes?

The focus on observable behaviors rather than internal mental processes is a key characteristic of behavioral psychology. This approach emphasizes the study of behavior that can be seen and measured, asserting that understanding behavior is essential in shaping and modifying it. Behavioral psychologists believe that all behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment and that behavior can be trained or modified through the use of conditioning techniques.

For example, techniques such as positive reinforcement and punishment are central to behavioral psychology. The approach advocates that psychologists can study and influence behavior without delving into the complexities of the mind, thereby prioritizing empirical evidence over subjective interpretations.

In contrast, cognitive psychology examines mental processes like thinking, memory, and problem-solving, often seeking to understand how these cognitive functions influence behavior. Humanistic psychology emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, focusing on the individual's experience and emotional well-being. Psychodynamic psychology, founded on the ideas of Freud, analyzes unconscious processes and childhood experiences as influences on behavior.