Which of the following best describes the difference between structuralism and functionalism in early psychology?

• A. Structuralism studied how behavior is shaped by reinforcement, while functionalism examined unconscious motives.
• B. Structuralism relied on case studies, while functionalism used introspection as its main method.
• C. Structuralism focused on analyzing the basic components of consciousness, while functionalism emphasized the purpose and adaptive functions of mental processes.
• D. Structuralism was primarily concerned with animal behavior, while functionalism focused on human development.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that structuralism and functionalism are two foundational schools of thought in early psychology, each with a distinct focus.
2. Step 2: Recognize that structuralism aimed to break down mental processes into their most basic elements, often using introspection to analyze the components of consciousness.
3. Step 3: Note that functionalism, in contrast, emphasized the purpose of mental processes and how they help an organism adapt to its environment, focusing on the functions rather than the structure.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the given options by comparing them to these core definitions: structuralism is about the 'what' of mental processes (basic components), and functionalism is about the 'why' or 'how' mental processes work (their adaptive purpose).
5. Step 5: Identify the option that correctly states that structuralism focused on analyzing the basic components of consciousness, while functionalism emphasized the purpose and adaptive functions of mental processes.