How would a psychologist who subscribes to the school of Behaviorism explain the problem of violence? What are the weaknesses and strengths of Behaviorism?
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1.
courses.durhamtech.edu/tlc/www/html/Resources/learnin...
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seab.envmed.rochester.edu/jeab/articles/2002/jeab-77-
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www.behavior.org/journals_BP/2004/08Harzem.pdf -
Excellent site: http://www.sntp.net/behaviorism/behaviorism_main.htm
Look at #7:
http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/behaviorism/
This explores the decline and fall of the philosophy:
http://www.psy.pdx.edu/PsiCafe/KeyTheorists/BehApp.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Behaviorism
A psychologist who subscribes to the school of Behaviorism would explain the problem of violence in terms of observable behaviors and environmental factors. According to Behaviorism, all behavior is learned through conditioning, and violent behavior is no exception.
Behaviorists would argue that violent behavior is a result of a person's interactions with their environment, including their upbringing, social influences, and reinforcement history. They would emphasize the influence of environmental stimuli, such as violent media, aggression in the family or community, and the rewards or punishments associated with violent acts.
The strengths of Behaviorism in explaining the problem of violence include:
1. Empirical approach: Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and measurable outcomes, which allows for scientific research and empirical evidence. This means that hypotheses can be tested and theories can be revised based on objective observations and data.
2. Practical applications: Behaviorism has been successfully applied in various fields, such as education, parenting, and therapy. Behavior therapy, for example, has been effective in reducing violent behavior by identifying and modifying the environmental conditions that contribute to aggression.
3. Importance of environmental factors: Behaviorism recognizes the role of environmental factors in shaping behavior, highlighting the need for interventions at the individual and societal levels. This approach suggests that changes in the environment, such as reducing exposure to violence or providing positive reinforcement for non-violent behavior, can help prevent or reduce violent acts.
However, Behaviorism also has some weaknesses when it comes to explaining the problem of violence:
1. Limited focus on internal processes: Behaviorism tends to neglect the influence of cognitive and emotional factors on behavior. Violent actions are often influenced by thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, which Behaviorism overlooks. This can lead to an incomplete understanding of the complex nature of violence.
2. Lack of individual differences: Behaviorism emphasizes the general principles of learning and behavior, but it often fails to account for the unique characteristics and individual differences that contribute to violence. People may have varying dispositions, motivations, or biological predispositions that are not adequately addressed by a strictly behaviorist perspective.
3. Ignoring the role of free will: Behaviorism emphasizes external influences on behavior, which can undermine the subjective experience of personal agency and free will. This poses a challenge when trying to understand and address the underlying motivations and choices that lead to violent acts.
In summary, a Behaviorist psychologist would explain the problem of violence by focusing on observable behaviors and environmental factors. While Behaviorism has strengths in its empirical approach, practical applications, and recognition of environmental influences, it also has weaknesses in neglecting internal processes, individual differences, and the role of free will.