The terms ‘behaviorist’ and ‘behaviorism’ are often used in psychology but have distinct meanings. A behaviorist is an individual who subscribes to the principles of behaviorism, which is a psychological school of thought.
Behaviorism itself is a theory that focuses on observable behaviors rather than internal mental states. It posits that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning and can be measured and modified through reinforcement and punishment.
In summary, while behaviorists are the practitioners or advocates for the behaviorist approach, behaviorism is the overarching theory that guides their practices. Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the foundational concepts within behavioral psychology.