Compare and Contrast these words, Structuralism, Functionalism and Behaviorism.

After you have done some reading and writing, we will be happy to make corrections and suggestions.

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http://web.grinnell.edu/courses/soc/s00/soc111-01/IntroTheories/Functionalism.html

http://www.forerunner.com/forerunner/X0497_DeMar_-_Behaviorism.html

To compare and contrast the words Structuralism, Functionalism, and Behaviorism, we first need to understand what each term means.

Structuralism: Structuralism is a psychological perspective that focuses on the study of the structure of the mind and its underlying components. This approach aims to understand the elements of human consciousness and how they relate to one another. Structuralists believe in breaking down mental experiences into smaller components or structures to understand the overall function.

Functionalism: Functionalism is another psychological perspective that focuses on understanding the purpose or function of mental processes and behaviors. Rather than focusing on the structure of the mind, functionalists emphasize how the mind and behavior serve adaptive purposes in an individual's environment. They focus on understanding how mental processes help individuals adapt to their surroundings and achieve their goals.

Behaviorism: Behaviorism is a psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behavior rather than focusing on the mind or internal mental processes. Behaviorists believe that behavior can be explained by understanding how external stimuli and environmental factors shape an individual's actions. They study how behaviors are learned, reinforced, and changed through conditioning and reinforcement.

Now that we understand the basics of each concept, let's compare and contrast them:

1. Focus of Study:
- Structuralism focuses on the structure of the mind and its components.
- Functionalism focuses on the purpose or function of mental processes and behaviors.
- Behaviorism focuses on observable behavior and the environmental factors that shape it.

2. Methodology:
- Structuralism uses introspection and self-reflection to analyze the structure of the mind.
- Functionalism adopts a more pragmatic approach by studying how mental processes help individuals adapt and function in their environment.
- Behaviorism relies on empirical observation and experimentation to understand how behaviors are acquired and modified.

3. Emphasis:
- Structuralism emphasizes the analysis of consciousness and its elements.
- Functionalism emphasizes the purpose and adaptive nature of mental processes.
- Behaviorism emphasizes observable behavior and the environmental factors that influence it.

4. Influential Figures:
- Structuralism was primarily associated with Wilhelm Wundt and his student, Edward Titchener.
- Functionalism was developed by William James.
- Behaviorism was influenced by the work of John B. Watson and later evolved by B.F. Skinner.

In summary, while all three perspectives are rooted in psychology, their focus and methodology set them apart. Structuralism focuses on the structure of the mind, functionalism emphasizes the function of mental processes, and behaviorism emphasizes observable behavior.