Question

_____________ argued that thoughts, feelings, and motives are unimportant in understanding human behavior. a. Behaviorists b. Psychoanalysts c. Functionalists d. Gestalt psychologists

Short answer

The correct answer is a. Behaviorists.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Theories in Psychology

To solve this problem, we need to know different psychological theories and their focus. Behaviorists argue that only observable behavior should be studied, disregarding thoughts, feelings, and internal mental states. Psychoanalysts focus on unconscious motives. Functionalists study mental processes based on their role in adaptation. Gestalt psychologists emphasize holistic processing of information.

Identify the Theory Matching the Statement

The statement mentions that thoughts, feelings, and motives are unimportant to the approach. In psychology, Behaviorists are known for this belief. They focus on observable behaviors rather than internal mental processes, aligning with the assertion in the question.

Confirm the Correct Option

From the given options, 'a. Behaviorists' is the only choice that matches the belief in the unimportance of mental states in behavior understanding. Psychoanalysts, Functionalists, and Gestalt psychologists each have different focuses that include internal mental processes.

Key concepts

observable behavior

Understanding human actions through observable behavior is a cornerstone of behaviorism. In this psychological approach, the emphasis is placed on what can be seen and measured rather than what is happening internally within the mind. Behaviorists like John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner believed that behavior could be studied objectively by observing actions and responses without speculating on the mind's workings.

This perspective allows researchers and educators to move away from subjective analysis of thoughts and feelings. Instead, they focus on concrete actions.

• This could involve studying the frequency of a behavior.
• Observing the conditions that affect behavior.
• Careful analysis of behavior patterns over time.

By prioritizing observable behavior, behaviorists aim to apply scientific methods to psychology, thus enhancing predictability and control over human actions.

psychological theories

Psychology encompasses diverse theories that help explain different facets of the human experience. Psychological theories can be broadly categorized based on their focus:

• Behaviorism is centered on observable behaviors and external stimuli.
• Psychoanalysis, founded by Sigmund Freud, examines the unconscious mind and internal motives.
• Functionalism explores mental processes, particularly how they help individuals adapt to their environments.
• Gestalt psychology emphasizes whole processing, asserting that "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts."

Each theory offers unique insights and has its methods for studying the mind and behavior. By understanding the key elements of these psychological theories, students can appreciate the varied approaches to explaining human actions and mental states.

internal mental processes

Despite the behaviorist focus on the external, internal mental processes are a critical area in other psychological theories. These are processes that occur within the mind and are related to perception, memory, thought, and emotions. They play a fundamental role in how individuals interpret and respond to the world around them.

Understanding internal mental processes allows psychologists to delve into:

• How individuals reason and solve problems.
• The way memories are formed and retrieved.
• The influence of emotions on decision-making.

By studying these invisible processes, psychologists aim to gain deeper insights into human nature, cognition, and how these internal processes affect external behaviors.

psychology education

Psychology education involves learning about various theories and approaches to understand human behavior and mental processes comprehensively. Students studying psychology are taught not only about different theories like behaviorism but also about methodologies and ethics in research.

In psychology education, students:

• Learn to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Develop skills to critically analyze behavioral data.
• Explore experimental design and data interpretation.

By gaining this knowledge, students are equipped to contribute to diverse fields, whether in research, clinical settings, or applied psychology, broadening their understanding of both observable behavior and internal mental states.