Final answer:
In psychology, the scientific goals focus on understanding behavior and cognitive processes rather than just empirical evidence. The correct answer, which captures these focal points of psychology, is 'c. behavior . . . cognitive processes'. This reflects the commitment to studying human thought and the underlying biological processes that determine behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goals of psychology, much like the goals of science, involve understanding phenomena through the scientific method. In psychology, however, the focus is specifically on understanding behavior and the cognitive and biological processes that underlie such behavior. To this end, psychologists study human thinking, emotions, and physiology to explain how these factors influence behavior.
Based on the context provided, the correct answer to the fill-in-the-blank question is: The goals of psychology are the same as the goals of science, except that in psychology, the focus is on behavior and cognitive processes. Therefore, the options provided, the correct answer is 'c. behavior . . . cognitive processes'. This encompasses the psychological study which often examines aspects such as cognition (how we think), emotion (how we feel), and biological underpinnings (such as neuronal and hormonal influences).
Whether it's the study of clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or any other subfield, psychology aims to understand the myriad ways in which mind and behavior are interconnected.