Atferdsperspektivet

Atferdsperspektivet, often translated as the behavioral perspective, is a major school of thought in psychology that emphasizes the study of observable behavior. It emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the introspective methods of earlier psychological approaches. Proponents of this perspective argue that psychology should be a science of behavior, not of the mind, as mental states are not directly observable and therefore not scientifically measurable.

The core principle of atferdsperspektivet is that behavior is learned through interaction with the environment. This learning occurs through processes such as classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning. Classical conditioning, famously demonstrated by Ivan Pavlov, involves learning through association, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a naturally occurring stimulus and elicits a similar response. Operant conditioning, developed by B.F. Skinner, focuses on how consequences shape behavior. Behaviors followed by reinforcement are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by punishment are less likely to occur. Observational learning, studied by Albert Bandura, suggests that individuals can learn behaviors by observing and imitating others.

Key figures associated with atferdsperspektivet include John B. Watson, considered the founder of behaviorism, and B.F. Skinner, who further developed its principles. This perspective has had a significant impact on various fields, including education, therapy (e.g., behavior modification), and animal training. While it has been criticized for overlooking internal mental processes, its emphasis on empirical observation and scientific methodology remains influential in modern psychology.