How do behavioral psychologists primarily explain human behavior?

Behavioral psychologists primarily explain human behavior by focusing on observable responses to stimuli. This approach emphasizes the idea that behavior is learned through interactions with the environment, particularly through processes such as conditioning. Behavioral psychologists study how external events, such as rewards and punishments, can shape and modify behavior over time. They work under the premise that behaviors can be measured and observed, making them more objective than introspective or subjective methods, which are less quantifiable.

This focus on observable behavior is contrasted with other psychological approaches that may delve into internal processes, such as unconscious conflicts or cognitive thought patterns, which are less visible and more difficult to assess in empirical studies. By concentrating on what can be seen and measured, behavioral psychology seeks to establish clear causal relationships between stimuli and responses, allowing for the development of therapies and interventions based on these principles.