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Behavior, Behavioral Psychology
(2,484 words)

1. Definition

Originally the word “behavior” referred to any form of physical activity of living creatures that, as distinct from psychological processes, could be objectively seen (with appropriate instruments) or measured by external observers. This classical definition was later expanded when a distinction was made between open and concealed conduct. The former is physical activity as just defined, whereas the latter involves what is not o…

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Möhle-Köhnken, Christiane and Frey, Dieter, “Behavior, Behavioral Psychology”, in: Encyclopedia of Christianity Online. Consulted online on 30 November 2023 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/2211-2685_eco_B128>
First published online: 2011
First print edition: ISBN: 9789004169678, 20080512



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