What is the primary method of inquiry in behaviorism?

The primary method of inquiry in behaviorism is rooted in the use of controlled experiments and the observation of behavior. Behaviorism focuses on observable and measurable aspects of human behavior, advocating that the study of psychology should be scientific and empirical. By conducting controlled experiments, researchers are able to manipulate variables and observe the effects on behavior in a systematic way. This allows for the identification of cause-and-effect relationships and contributes to the development of behavioral theories.

Observation is equally critical, as behaviorists emphasize the need to gather objective data on how individuals and groups act in various situations. This objective approach minimizes subjective interpretations and relies on concrete evidence as a foundation for making inferences about behavior. Thus, behaviorism distinctly prioritizes these methods over alternative approaches that rely more heavily on subjective experiences, introspection, or highly individualized assessments, which do not align with the core principles of behaviorism.