What does the behaviorist approach emphasize as the primary influencer on behavior?

The behaviorist approach emphasizes that external stimuli are the primary influencers on behavior. This perspective is rooted in the belief that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, which occurs via interactions with the environment. Behaviorists argue that observable behaviors can be shaped and modified through reinforcement and punishment mechanisms—meaning that external factors play a significant role in how individuals act.

In this context, external stimuli refer to all the influences, cues, or events in a person’s environment that can trigger or shape behavior. Behaviorists focus on these observable behaviors rather than internal thoughts, feelings, or motivations, which are considered less measurable. Consequently, learning and behavior change are viewed as direct responses to environmental stimuli rather than processes driven by internal cognitive or emotional states.