Behaviorist: meaning, definitions and examples

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behaviorist

 

[ bɪˈheɪvjərɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

study of behavior

Behaviorism is a psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors, rejecting the emphasis on internal thoughts and feelings. Behaviorists believe that behavior is learned through interactions with the environment and can be modified through reinforcement and punishment.

Synonyms

behavioral analysis, behavioral psychology.

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Word Description / Examples
behaviorist

This term is often used to refer to a person who studies or works within the field of behaviorism. It can refer to psychologists, researchers, or therapists who focus on understanding and changing behavior through observable and measurable actions.

  • She is a well-known behaviorist who has helped develop many effective behavioral therapies
  • John is training to become a behaviorist to help individuals with autism
behavioral psychology

This term is used to describe a branch of psychology that focuses on the study of observable behaviors, as opposed to internal states such as thoughts and emotions. It is often used in academic and clinical contexts to describe theories and practices that derive from this approach.

  • Behavioral psychology has contributed significantly to the development of therapies for phobias and anxiety
  • Her thesis in behavioral psychology examined the impact of rewards on student performance
behavioral analysis

This term refers to the scientific study of behavior, particularly the relationship between behavior and the environment. It is commonly used in research, clinical settings, and education to describe the process of observing, measuring, and interpreting behavior.

  • Through behavioral analysis, researchers can identify patterns that might explain why certain behaviors occur
  • The school implemented a program of behavioral analysis to help manage student conduct

Examples of usage

  • Many psychologists follow the principles of behaviorism in their research.
  • Behaviorism focuses on the relationship between behavior and environmental stimuli.

Translations

Translations of the word "behaviorist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comportamentalista

🇮🇳 व्यवहारवादी

🇩🇪 Behaviorist

🇮🇩 behavioris

🇺🇦 біхевіорист

🇵🇱 behawiorysta

🇯🇵 行動主義者 (こうどうしゅぎしゃ)

🇫🇷 comportementaliste

🇪🇸 conductista

🇹🇷 davranışçı

🇰🇷 행동주의자 (haengdongjuuija)

🇸🇦 سلوكي

🇨🇿 behaviorista

🇸🇰 behaviorista

🇨🇳 行为主义者 (xíngwéi zhǔyì zhě)

🇸🇮 vedenjski psiholog

🇮🇸 atferlisfræðingur

🇰🇿 мінез-құлық зерттеушісі

🇬🇪 ქცევითი ფსიქოლოგი

🇦🇿 davranışçı

🇲🇽 conductista

Etymology

The term 'behaviorist' was first introduced by John B. Watson in the early 20th century. He believed that psychology should focus on observable behavior rather than internal mental processes. Behaviorism became a dominant school of thought in psychology for much of the 20th century, influencing research in areas such as learning, conditioning, and behavior modification.

See also: behavioral, behaviors, misbehavior.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,413 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.