What psychological perspective investigates observable behaviors learned through the environment?

The psychological perspective that investigates observable behaviors learned through the environment is behaviorism. This approach focuses on the idea that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning. Behaviorists emphasize the role of environmental stimuli in shaping behavior, arguing that internal thoughts and feelings are not necessary for understanding behavior. They believe that by examining the external influences on behavior, such as reinforcement and punishment, one can understand how certain behaviors are learned and modified. This perspective has been foundational in fields such as education and therapy, influencing practices that involve behavior modification and observational learning.

In contrast, cognitivism centers on the mental processes involved in learning and understanding, such as memory and problem-solving, rather than just observable behaviors. Pragnanz is related to Gestalt psychology, which focuses on perception and how individuals organize visual elements into groups. The hierarchy of needs, proposed by Maslow, addresses human motivation and needs rather than behavior learned through environmental interaction. Therefore, behaviorism is specifically the perspective that aligns with the investigation of observable behaviors learned through the environment.