Watson wanted his research to employ objective methods of
measurement. The basis of objectivity was that the events, in principle, be publicly
observed, that is regarded by more than one person. Introspective analysis of mind is
automatically eliminated as the private mental events are perceived by only one person
that is an experiencing individual. This objectivity requirement was not restricted : A
great variety of researches were made to meet its standards. Besides Watson’s
favorite research method of conditioning, other methods like psychological testing,
psycho-physiological studies were also encouraged. Verbal reports were not ignored, but
viewed differently by behaviorism.
CRITERION OF TRUTH
Watson never had the complex problem of defining truth. He acknowledged that psychology was a natural science. He accepted the concept of the test of a theoretical hypothesis is its capacity to deductively predict empirical events. He wanted to apply psychological problems to personal adjustment and social improvement than to formulate precise theories of behavior.
Consequently he emphasized on importance of predicting and controlling behavior, in preference to the construction of an integrated theory with clear deductive consequences. Watson employed the stimulus response conception of a behavior as a tool to predict and control behavior. He discovered and controlled the stimulus to which a form of behavior is connected, allows for control of that behavior.
