John B. Watson

John B. Watson (January 9, 1878 – September 25, 1958) was an American psychologist who established the psychological school of behaviorism. Watson promoted a change in psychology through his address, Psychology as the Behaviorist Views it, which was given at Columbia University in 1913. His work has greatly influenced the field of psychology, particularly through his emphasis on systematic observation of overt behavior, which formed the basis of behavioral psychology.

Early life and education

Watson was born in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, to Pickens Butler Watson and Emma Kesiah Watson (née Roe). He grew up in a relatively poor family and was often in trouble with the law. Despite these early difficulties, Watson was able to attend Furman University where he completed his degree in 1900. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Chicago in 1903.

Career

After completing his doctorate, Watson began teaching at the University of Chicago. In 1908, he moved to Johns Hopkins University where he conducted research and served as a professor of psychology. It was during this time that he developed his theories on behaviorism.

Watson's work focused on the idea that human behavior could be understood in terms of conditioned responses. He argued that psychology should focus on observable behavior, rather than internal mental processes. This approach was a significant departure from the introspection method that was popular at the time.

In 1920, Watson left academia following a scandal and began working for the J. Walter Thompson advertising agency. Here, he applied his theories of behaviorism to the field of advertising, pioneering the use of psychological techniques in marketing.

Legacy

Watson's work has had a profound impact on the field of psychology. His theories have been influential in the development of behavioral therapy and the cognitive revolution. Despite some criticism of his methods and theories, Watson's emphasis on observable behavior remains a fundamental aspect of psychological research and practice.

See also

• Behaviorism
• Psychology
• Cognitive revolution