One major objection to the early Skinnerian approach to psychology is that it:

• A. Relied heavily on introspection as a research method
• B. Focused primarily on the study of unconscious motives
• C. Emphasized the role of genetics over environment in shaping behavior
• D. Ignored internal mental processes such as thoughts and emotions

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the Skinnerian approach, which is a form of behaviorism focusing on observable behavior and external reinforcement rather than internal mental states.
2. Recognize that early Skinnerian psychology emphasized the role of environmental stimuli and consequences (reinforcements and punishments) in shaping behavior.
3. Note that Skinner's approach deliberately avoided studying internal mental processes like thoughts, feelings, or emotions because they are not directly observable.
4. Compare this with other psychological approaches that do consider internal mental states, such as cognitive psychology or psychoanalysis.
5. Conclude that the major objection to Skinnerian psychology is that it ignored internal mental processes, which limits understanding of the full complexity of human behavior.