PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion

PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion

Applied behavior analysis, the study of how behaviors change and develop, is based on certain philosophical beliefs. One of these is determinism, which means that all behaviors happen because of previous causes. Many early behavioral theories were rooted in this belief. For example, B.F. Watson, in his work “Setting the Stages for Behaviorism’s Social Action Legacy” in 1913, argued that the environment is the most significant factor influencing a person’s behavior. Watson believed that the conditions in the environment had a more substantial impact on behavior than even one’s genetics or temperament. Skinner, a contemporary of Watson, shared this belief. Skinner maintained that all behaviors occur as a result of determined reinforcement contingencies (Brent, D. Slife, Yanchar, & Williams, 1999) (PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion).

When we consider how determinism applies to the study of human behavior, it’s an essential aspect of operant conditioning. Like the early deterministic views, this approach to behavior is grounded in the cause-and-effect relationship between an antecedent or existing condition and the introduction of a stimulus to change a behavior.

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Another philosophical foundation of behavior analysis is empiricism. Empiricism is about making objective observations and drawing conclusions based on data that can be collected, recorded, measured, and analyzed from these observations (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2020). It’s a scientific way of understanding human behavior and its consequences.

Regarding its relevance to the study of behavior, it aligns with the idea that human behavior is something we can observe. Empiricism can be applied to behavior by observing, recording, and making inferences from the observable aspects of what someone is thinking, feeling, and experiencing (PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion).

References:

– Brent, D. Slife, S. Yanchar, C. & Williams, B. (1999). Conceptions of Determinism in Radical Behaviorism: A Taxonomy. Behavior and Philosophy, 27(2), 75-96.

– Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.

– Watson, J. (1913). Setting the Stages for Behaviorism’s Social Action Legacy. Retrieved from http://rmac-mx.org/john-b-watsons-1913-behaviorist-manifesto-setting-the-stage-for-behaviorisms-social-action-legacy/ (PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion).

Discussion on Philosophical Assumptions in Applied Behavior Analysis (PSYC 6717)

In applied behavior analysis, the work of scientists is guided by a set of shared philosophical assumptions and scientific attitudes. These principles influence how behavior analysts conduct their investigations, develop strategies, and interpret their findings.

For this discussion, we will explore six of these fundamental assumptions and attitudes: determinism, empiricism, experimentation, replication, parsimony, and philosophic doubt. We will also consider real-world examples of how these principles relate to the study of human behavior.

Preparation:

1. Review this week’s learning resources, including the required weekly media program, to gain a better understanding of the philosophical assumptions that shape the practice of behavior analysis.
2. Think about examples that illustrate how these philosophical assumptions apply to the study of human behavior.
3. Familiarize yourself with the interactive media in the Learning Resources, titled “Six Assumptions or Attitudes of Behavior Analysis.”

By Day 4 of Week 2:

The behavior of scientists, including behavior analysts, is characterized by a common set of assumptions: determinism, empiricism, experimentation, replication, parsimony, and philosophic doubt.

Share two of these assumptions and provide an example of how each relates to the study of human behavior.

By Day 6 of Week 2:

Respond to at least two colleagues’ posts by expanding on their explanations of how the assumptions they’ve identified apply to the study of human behavior.

Make sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search for peer-reviewed articles in the Walden Library or on the internet to bolster your posts and responses. Follow proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.

Return to this discussion after a few days to read the responses to your initial post and consider what you have learned from your colleagues’ comments.

Regarding the two assumptions:

1. Parsimony: This principle suggests finding a straightforward, logical explanation before considering something complex or advanced. Applying parsimony in behavior analysis allows for the introduction of new concepts without overcomplicating explanations. It aids behavioralists in minimizing assumptions about behavior, making their interpretations more credible. Accepting simpler explanations helps maintain clarity in understanding behavior.

2. Philosophic Doubt: This assumption encourages continuous questioning and skepticism when it comes to understanding human behavior. It implies that we should never stop challenging our existing knowledge. By questioning everything, we leave room for new findings and insights. It reinforces the idea that there’s always more to explore, preventing stagnation and promoting the growth of knowledge in a specific field.

Both parsimony and philosophic doubt play crucial roles in advancing our understanding of human behavior. They contribute to the ever-evolving nature of science and our society.

References:

– Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.
– Walden University, LLC. (2021). Six assumptions and attitudes of behavior analysis [Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu

Response:

Hi [Colleague’s Name], I completely agree with your assessments regarding parsimony and philosophic doubt. Parsimony is a valuable principle because it encourages us to seek simplicity in explanations, and simplicity often mirrors the underlying truth. Starting with the simplest explanation helps keep our ideas and facts organized and on task more effectively.

Regarding philosophic doubt, it is indeed essential in the scientific world. Even when we believe we have solid, irrefutable evidence, applying philosophic doubt often reveals deeper insights or entirely new perspectives. In the ever-expanding fields of science and technology, this attitude is especially relevant, as it keeps us open to the potential for continued growth and innovation.

Your observations align well with the principles of behavior analysis. Well done!

Reference:

– Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.
– Walden University, LLC. (2021). Six assumptions and attitudes of behavior analysis [Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu

[End of response] (PSYC 6717 Philosophical Assumptions Discussion).