Which psychological approach focuses on an organism's observable behavior as opposed to thoughts or feelings?

• A. Behaviorism
• B. Humanistic psychology
• C. Cognitive psychology
• D. Psychoanalysis

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key focus of each psychological approach listed in the problem. Behaviorism emphasizes observable behaviors, Humanistic psychology focuses on personal growth and self-actualization, Cognitive psychology studies mental processes like thinking and memory, and Psychoanalysis explores unconscious motives and conflicts.
2. Step 2: Identify the approach that specifically concentrates on observable behavior rather than internal mental states such as thoughts or feelings.
3. Step 3: Recall that Behaviorism is the psychological approach that studies behavior that can be seen and measured, often ignoring internal mental processes.
4. Step 4: Compare this understanding with the other options to confirm that none of them prioritize observable behavior as their main focus.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the psychological approach focusing on observable behavior is Behaviorism.