Which psychological theory is closely associated with John Watson?

John Watson is most closely associated with behaviorism, a psychological theory that emphasizes the role of environmental stimuli in shaping behavior. Watson believed that psychology should focus on observable behaviors rather than internal mental processes, which set the foundation for behaviorism as a discipline. This approach posits that behavior can be studied in a systematic and observable manner without considering internal states like thoughts, feelings, or motivations.

The emphasis on observable phenomena means that behaviorism often involves the study of how individuals respond to various stimuli in their environment, which aligns well with Watson's views. He famously conducted experiments, such as the Little Albert study, which demonstrated that emotional responses could be conditioned through associative learning. This had significant implications for fields such as education and psychology, leading to a more scientific approach to understanding behavior.

In contrast, cognitive theory focuses on internal mental processes, constructivism centers around how individuals construct knowledge through experiences, and humanism emphasizes personal growth and the individual's potential. These approaches differ fundamentally from behaviorism's focus on observable actions and interactions with the environment.