What does behaviorism propose regarding psychological disorders?

Behaviorism proposes that psychological disorders can be understood and treated effectively by focusing on observable behavior rather than internal mental states. This approach emphasizes the modification of behavior patterns through techniques such as conditioning, reinforcement, and behavior modification strategies. By altering an individual's behavior, behaviorists believe that it is possible to create changes in emotional and cognitive processes, which can lead to improvements in psychological well-being.

The emphasis on changing external behaviors aligns with the core principles of behaviorism, which assert that all behaviors are learned and can be unlearned or modified through appropriate interventions. Therefore, the approach suggests that by addressing maladaptive behaviors and replacing them with more adaptive ones, individuals can better manage their psychological disorders. This belief is rooted in the assumption that behavioral patterns are often linked to the emergence and maintenance of these disorders.

Other perspectives, such as biological and cognitive approaches, place greater emphasis on internal processes or genetic factors, which is why those options do not align with the core tenets of behaviorism.