What psychological approach emphasizes the impact of external stimuli on observable behavior?

The correct answer is behaviorism, which emphasizes the idea that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning and that our responses to environmental stimuli shape our learning and behavior. In this approach, the focus is on observable behavior rather than on internal mental states. Behaviorists believe that learning is a result of a person's interaction with their environment, relying on reinforcement, punishment, and repeated practice to shape behavior.

This emphasis on observable actions and external influences is foundational in behaviorism, making it distinct from other psychological approaches. For example, cognitivism shifts the focus to internal mental processes, like thoughts and problem-solving. Constructivism centers on how learners actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world, rather than responding to stimuli. Social learning theory incorporates aspects of behaviorism but specifically highlights the role of observational learning and imitation in the learning process, which also differs from pure behaviorism’s focus on direct interaction with stimuli.