What is the central belief of behaviorism in relation to learning?

The central belief of behaviorism in relation to learning is that learning results in a change in behavior based on external stimuli. Behaviorism posits that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, which happens in response to the environment. This perspective emphasizes observable behaviors rather than internal thoughts or feelings, asserting that learning occurs when an individual interacts with external factors that influence their responses.

In behaviorism, reinforcements and punishments are key concepts that drive the learning process. Positive reinforcements encourage the repetition of desired behaviors, while negative consequences can deter undesirable behaviors. This means that learning is seen as a direct result of how individuals react to their environment rather than being influenced by innate abilities, cognitive processes, or social interactions. Thus, the emphasis on observable changes in behavior as a result of external stimuli clearly aligns with the core tenets of behaviorist theory.