Final answer:
The answer to the question is b) False. A good behavioral definition focuses on concrete, observable actions and outcomes, avoiding inferences about internal motivations or states. The correct option is b.
Step-by-step explanation:
A good behavioral definition does not require us to make inferences about the internal states or motivation of the individual. Thus, the correct answer to the question is b) False.
In the field of psychology, when we attempt to define behavior in a measurable and observable manner, we avoid attributing it to internal states or motivations which cannot be directly observed. Instead, we strive to describe behavior in terms of concrete actions and observable outcomes.
This approach is consistent with the principles of behaviourism, which emphasizes the importance of observable and measurable behaviors over internal processes.
For instance, behaviorists such as B.F. Skinner, who focused on operant conditioning, looked at the external causes of action and the actions' consequences as the basis for understanding behavior, rather than internal thoughts or motivations.
Motivation itself can be inferred from behavior, but for a strict behavioral definition, the emphasis is on observable actions. Situational and dispositional influences on behavior also highlight the complexity of human actions and how they are a product of both environmental factors and internal characteristics.
The Fundamental Attribution Error is an example of a common mistake where people overemphasize internal characteristics (dispositions) and underestimate situational factors when explaining others' behaviors. The correct option is b.