AP Psychology Practice Test

What perspective does behaviorism endorse?

1. Studying behavior and mental processes equally

2. An objective science that studies behavior without reference to mental processes

3. The importance of understanding the biological bases of behavior

4. Focusing solely on cognitive processes

The correct answer is: An objective science that studies behavior without reference to mental processes

Behaviorism endorses an objective scientific approach that focuses exclusively on observable behaviors and the ways they can be measured and quantified, without reference to mental processes such as thoughts, feelings, or perceptions. This perspective holds that since mental states and cognitive processes are subjective and not directly observable, they should not be the focus of psychological study. Behaviorism emerged as a response to introspective methods utilized by earlier psychological schools, emphasizing the value of empirical research and experimentation to understand behavior in a systematic way. The emphasis is on the environment's role in shaping behavior through conditioning, which can be observed and documented. This approach has been pivotal in developing treatments and understanding behaviors based on conditioning principles. The other options suggest an integration of mental processes, biological factors, or a focus on cognition, which do not align with the core tenets of behaviorism.