Behaviorists draw parallels between humans and other animals, and they often use animals like this dog in their experiments. John Watson Behaviorism Summary Behaviorists sought a more objective, more scientific form of psychology. behaviorists concerned themselves only with directly observable behavior, not the mental introspection of the structuralists or the unverifiable speculation of the psychoanalysts. In 1913, John Watson more or less redefined psychology when he published a paper on behaviorism.

Ivan Pavlov Important People in Behaviorism Ivan Pavlov (AD 1906): Pavlov discovered that producing a stimulus like a ringing bell at the same time as another stimulus such as food, dogs would come to associate the first stimulus (the bell) with the second (the food) and would produce the reaction normally associated with the second (salivating at food) with the second (salivating at the bell.) This effect became known as classical conditioning. B. F. Skinner (AD 1930s): Skinner discovered some basic principles of learning in his animal experience. He said the same principles present in animals were present in humans. He said most behavior is shaped by positive or negative reinforcement. This is called operant conditioning. Many of Skinners findings and beliefs have been utilized in practical application, such as training animals for military use or teaching individuals at their own pace with reinforcement or parents disciplining and bribing their children.

Philosophical Roots Physiological Roots Pseudoscientific Schools of Thought Structuralism Functionalism Psychoanalysis Gestalt Behaviorism Humanism Cognitive Psychology's Roots Home

by Steven N. Jacowski, September 20, 2004
Mr. Ward's AP Psychology - 6th
Craig High School