Behavior

Human behavior is a complex subject that can be pivotal in understanding the development of certain mental health conditions. By studying behavior patterns, psychologists and mental health professionals may be better equipped to discern potential precursors to a range of disorders. 

Human behavior studies span several disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and anthropology. From the inception of philosophical thought, the question of why humans behave as they do has intrigued people worldwide. Ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle and Plato speculated on the role of the mind, body, and spirit in shaping actions, and renowned psychologists like Sigmund Freud and BF Skinner further advanced this understanding by introducing concepts of the unconscious mind and behavioral conditioning. 

Today, the study of human behavior continues to evolve, incorporating insights from neuroscience and genetics to help researchers better comprehend how biological factors interplay with environmental influences to shape behavior. Understanding human behavior can help individuals navigate social interactions, address societal issues and mental health disorders, and equip individuals with more insight into how to improve their well-being. 

Behavioral patterns may illuminate how individuals react to stress, interact with others, and cope with emotional challenges. Understanding this pattern may lead to early identification and therapeutic interventions, paving the way for more effective treatment strategies and mindfulness of behavior patterns. For instance, consistent patterns of withdrawal, defensiveness, or substance use could indicate the onset of conditions like depression or anxiety disorders. Therefore, understanding and interpreting human behavior can be an indispensable tool in the field of mental health.

Human behavior is a multi-faceted and complex field of study. Broadly, it can be classified into two categories: innate and learned behavior.

Innate behavior, such as reflexes and instincts, are inborn and remain relatively constant throughout an individual's life. They are often crucial for survival and do not require learning or experience to develop, such as using the bathroom. 

Learned behavior is acquired and modified over time through experiences and interactions. This type of behavior encompasses habits, skills, and social norms. It includes behaviors that people adopt from cultural, educational, and social contexts, and it evolves as they grow and change. Below are other types of behavior that may be observed. 

Overt and covert behavior

Overt behavior refers to actions that are observable and can be directly measured. This type includes physical activities like walking, talking, or eating. It's the behavior people can see and interact with in their daily lives.

Contrarily, covert behavior includes actions that are internal and hidden from view. These encompass thought processes, urges, and decisions. Although people cannot directly observe these behaviors, they may infer their existence based on the overt behaviors expressed by someone else.  

Voluntary and involuntary behavior

Voluntary behaviors are those people consciously choose to carry out, driven by the desire to achieve a specific result. These could include actions like deciding to eat healthier, enrolling in a course, or starting an exercise regime.

In contrast, involuntary behavior refers to actions that occur without conscious control. These behaviors may be automatic or reflexive, such as blinking your eyes, sneezing, or smiling. While you may not have much control over your involuntary behaviors, understanding them may provide valuable insights into the nature of the subconscious and habitual tendencies. 

Understanding these behaviors and their sources is applicable in various fields, including psychology, education, and social work. It is a foundation for individuals and societies to better comprehend their actions, reactions, and interactions.

Many factors can influence behavioral changes and vary significantly in complexity. These factors can range from environmental influences, such as learning new behaviors through observation or personal experiences, to biological elements, such as the impact of genetic predispositions or the effect of hormonal changes on mood and behavior. Interpersonal relationships, societal norms, and cultural expectations also mold behaviors.

The interplay of these factors further amplifies the complexity of behavioral changes. For instance, a person entangled in a toxic relationship may develop defensive behaviors that are difficult to alter even after the relationship ends. On the other end of the spectrum, someone might adopt healthier lifestyle habits after witnessing their positive impact on a friend's life. Understanding the multifaceted nature of behavioral change can provide valuable insights into facilitating positive shifts in one's behavior.

Human behavior is flexible and adaptable

Human behavior is often purposeful or goal-directed, serving a particular function or result. People often take actions they believe will bring them closer to achieving their objectives. This choice is often based on previous experiences, cultural norms, or learned behaviors. 

However, human behavior is not often static or rigid. People can adapt and evolve their actions and reactions based on new information, experiences, or environments. This flexibility allows for integration—blending new and old behaviors—to create a more comprehensive approach to achieving goals. Through this adaptive potential, humans have been able to learn, grow, and navigate the world's complexities.

Understanding human behavior can be a critical component of mental health. This field, often studied in psychology, is a complex interplay of thought patterns, emotions, and actions, all influenced by various biological, psychological, and social factors. Often, behavior can serve as a window into one’s mental state, with changes in behavior potentially indicating shifts in mental health.

Mental health is closely linked to behavior. For instance, individuals experiencing depression may exhibit behaviors such as:

• Communication of persistent sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
• A loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite 
• Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering 
• Increased fatigue or loss of energy
• Restlessness or irritability
• Withdrawal from community and socialization 

Alternatively, those with anxiety disorders could demonstrate behaviors like restlessness, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance. 

Positive behaviors can be crucial in maintaining a balance between mental and physical health. When individuals engage in activities that bring them joy, stimulate them intellectually, or provide a sense of accomplishment, their brain releases endorphins—chemicals that act as natural mood lifters. 

These behaviors not only boost emotional well-being but may also alleviate stress, which directly impacts physical and mental health. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate rest are examples of positive behaviors that could maintain this harmony.

However, behavior is just one aspect of mental health. It can be essential to consider the entire spectrum of a person's experience, including their thoughts, feelings, relationships, environment, and physical health.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)⁵ is a unique form of behavioral therapy that combines mindfulness techniques with a focus on developing an acceptance of the reality of change. Its core principle is the acceptance of feelings and thoughts as they come rather than trying to suppress or avoid them. 

ACT posits that struggles often occur when people resist or control their experiences. By embracing mindfulness and acceptance, individuals may learn to cope with harsh feelings and thoughts, reducing their influence on their overall well-being. The commitment aspect of ACT is often about making a conscious choice to take action aligned with personal values despite challenging feelings or thoughts that may arise.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) operates on the notion that thoughts, attitudes, and perceptions profoundly influence behavior. By identifying and challenging maladaptive thought patterns and beliefs, individuals can fundamentally alter their reactions and behavior, often leading to improved mental and emotional health. CBT equips individuals with practical techniques to manage stress, overcome anxiety, and effectively cope with a range of psychological challenges.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help people manage their emotions, build healthier relationships, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Developed initially to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and suicidal tendencies, DBT is now employed to address various mental health disorders. 

This therapeutic approach emphasizes acceptance and change. It integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques, which help individuals change unhealthy behaviors, with mindfulness practices derived from Buddhist meditative traditions. DBT fosters skills in four key areas: 

• Mindfulness
• Distress tolerance
• Emotional regulation
• Interpersonal effectiveness

These competencies empower individuals to navigate emotional distress and interpersonal conflicts, leading to a more balanced and resilient life.

For those with thoughts of suicide, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

Behavioral challenges can often be addressed in therapy. Many therapeutic modalities are focused on changing behavior and exploring the connection between behavior, thoughts, and feelings. One such modality is cognitive-behavioral therapy,  often considered the “gold standard” of psychotherapy for a myriad of mental illnesses and mental health challenges. 

In CBT, clients learn how their emotions might prompt thoughts, which can then cause maladaptive behavioral urges. Learning that behaviors are separate from thoughts and feelings may give clients more control over how they act and help them notice common patterns in thinking, such as cognitive distortions. A therapist can guide them in reframing these thoughts to reduce harmful behavioral urges. 

Other behavioral and cognitive-behavioral modalities include the following: 

• Group therapy: Group therapy may help clients by providing social examples of positive behavior. New group members can receive guidance and advice from other group members who may have worked through similar challenges, while the therapist can oversee the conversation to ensure professionalism and therapeutic results. 
• Humanistic therapy: Humanistic therapy takes an integrative approach, ensuring sessions are client-focused and unique to each individual. In sessions, therapists tailor the client's coping techniques and treatment plans depending on their unique challenges. They may use techniques from multiple behavioral modalities to support clients in behavioral change. 
• Rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT): REBT is a modality based on CBT that helps clients identify harmful thoughts. This modality takes a more philosophistic approach to emotional understanding than CBT. It uses skills like unconditional self-acceptance to help clients move forward from non-adaptive beliefs about themselves or their situation.

There are hundreds of therapeutic modalities providers can use to support individuals with behavioral challenges. To learn more about options, individuals might consult with several therapists about their approaches and find one that interests them. To find therapy, you can search online, explore therapeutic non-profit organizations, or search for a specific modality you’re interested in. For example, the American Art Therapy Association (AATA) has a directory of art therapists in the US for prospective clients to look through.