What does behaviorism emphasize regarding the influence on behavior?

Behaviorism emphasizes that behavior is primarily a result of environmental influences and learning experiences, rather than innate or biological factors. According to this perspective, behavior is shaped through interaction with the environment, where external stimuli can lead to specific responses. This school of thought suggests that all behaviors can be learned or modified through conditioning—whether classical or operant—thus underlining the importance of observable actions rather than internal mental states or genetic predispositions.

In the context of behaviorism, the significance of environmental factors highlights the role of reinforcement, punishment, and stimuli in shaping behavior, which is a core principle of this psychological approach. This focus allows for a broader understanding of how behaviors can be adjusted and changed through varying experiences and interactions with the environment.