Final answer:
Behaviorist theories provide an objective methodology based on observable behaviors and emphasize the significant impact of the environment, through reinforcement and consequences, on shaping behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Behaviorist theories have substantially contributed to the field of psychology. Two primary strengths stand out when considering the impact of this perspective:
- Objective Methodology: Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors, making psychology an objective science. This emphasis on empiricism allows for measurable and verifiable research, avoiding subjective interpretation of unobservable mental processes.
- Environmental Impact on Behavior: Behaviorists argue that the environment shapes behavior through reinforcement and consequences. This provides a systematic approach to understanding and predicting human behavior, suggesting that people learn and adapt based on their experiences.
John Watson and B.F. Skinner were influential figures within this school of thought, advocating for the importance of studying overt behavior. Their work has led to a deeper understanding of how consistent behavior patterns form through interactions with the environment, rather than being purely the result of inborn attributes.