According to the behavioral perspective in psychology, which of the following statements best reflects what behaviorists believe should be the focus of scientific study?

• A. Unobservable mental processes are the primary focus of behavioral research.
• B. Behaviorists believe that introspection is the best method for understanding the mind.
• C. Both conscious and unconscious thoughts are more important than behavior.
• D. Only observable behaviors should be studied, as they can be measured objectively.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core principle of the behavioral perspective in psychology, which emphasizes the study of observable behaviors rather than internal mental states.
2. Step 2: Recognize that behaviorists argue scientific study should focus on behaviors that can be objectively measured and observed, avoiding unobservable mental processes like thoughts and feelings.
3. Step 3: Review the options given and identify which statement aligns with this principle—specifically, the one that highlights observable behaviors as the primary focus.
4. Step 4: Eliminate options that emphasize introspection, unconscious thoughts, or mental processes, as these are not the focus of behaviorism.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best reflection of behaviorist belief is that only observable behaviors should be studied scientifically because they provide measurable and objective data.