Behaviorism's relationship to the medical model is best described as which of the following?

• A. It has always been a core part of the medical model
• B. It was never part of the medical model
• C. It was not part initially, but today is closely aligned with it
• D. It contradicts the medical model

Answer: (C)

Behaviorism focuses on observable behavior and learning processes rather than internal mental states. Historically, the medical model (especially in psychiatry) emphasized biological factors, pathology, and physiological treatments, so behaviorism didn’t sit as a core part of that model at first. Over time, however, behavioral approaches were incorporated into medical care—through behavioral therapies, behavior modification, and the later rise of cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as the broader fields of health psychology and behavioral medicine. Today, medical practice often uses behavioral strategies to influence health outcomes, treatment adherence, and lifestyle changes, bringing behaviorism into close alignment with the medical model. This is why the best description is that behaviorism started outside the medical model but is now closely aligned with it.