Skinner’s and Maslow’s Personality Theories, Essay Example

Behavioral science is one of the most diverse and interesting branches of psychology. There are numerous theories embedded within the field. However, one of the most captivating and yet controversial theories is the B.F. Skinner’s behavioral theory, also known as the Operant Behavior and Conditioning Theory.

The operant behavior and conditioning theory is founded on the notion that human behavior should be analyzed in terms of the overt responses that an individual makes and nothing more (Schultz and Schultz 380). This theory has faced considerable criticism owing to its omission of an inward force that can trigger response to stimuli (respondent behavior) and/or instigate an action by an individual (operant behavior). This theory focused on operant behavior, and the effect that it has on the environment as opposed to responsive behavior that is affected by the environment.

Abraham Maslow, a renowned humanistic psychologist, held the notion that human behavior is influenced by the manner in which an individual perceives their environment. This theory, a cognitive behavioral theory, focused on the inward forces that trigger a response to stimuli and/or instigate action by an individual.

I believe B.F. Skinner’s theory is quite effective and useful in explaining human behavior from an external point of view. This theory is a useful tool in developing and/or influencing behavior, but fails to consider the inward forces that trigger responses to stimuli or action. A human being is not only the sum of their actions and responses to stimuli. Cognition plays an important part to human behavior. Skinner fails to put this into consideration, making his theory useful, but uncomprehensive. Maslow’s cognitive theory bridges this gap, by providing an analysis of the inward causes of actions and responses to stimuli. I partially agree with Skinners theory, but would bridge the gap in this theory with Abraham Maslow’s cognitive theory.

Works Cited

Schultz, Duane P and Sydney E Schultz. Theoies of Personality. 8th. Belmont: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2012. Electronic Source. 7 May 2015. <http://basijcssc.ir/sites/default/files/Theories%20of%20Personality%208%20edition.pdf>.