What is a fundamental premise of behaviorism in psychology?

The fundamental premise of behaviorism in psychology is that it studies only observable behavior. This approach emerged early in the 20th century as a reaction against introspective methods, emphasizing that psychology should be a science based on observable phenomena rather than subjective experiences. Behaviorists argue that behaviors can be measured and analyzed without needing to consider internal mental states or processes, which they view as too subjective and less reliable for scientific study.

By focusing on observable behaviors, behaviorism allows for the development of clear and testable hypotheses that can be empirically verified through experimentation. This methodology has led to various behavioral therapies and interventions, especially in the field of applied behavior analysis, which is often utilized in treating individuals with autism.

In contrast, other options involve concepts that do not align with the core tenets of behaviorism. The focus on unconscious thoughts and feelings pertains more to psychoanalytic theory, while introspection relates to methodological approaches that behaviorism explicitly rejects. The role of genetics, while important, is not central to behaviorism, which prioritizes environmental factors in shaping behavior.