behavioral
UK: bɪˈheɪvjərəl | US: bɪˈheɪvjərəl
adj. relating to behavior or observable actions
adj. (psychology) pertaining to the study of behavior
The word "behavioral" derives from the verb "behave," which combines "be-" (intensive prefix) + "have" (from Old English "habban," meaning "to hold or possess"). The suffix "-ior" (Latin-derived) forms nouns indicating state or action, while "-al" (Latin "-alis") turns nouns into adjectives. Thus, "behavioral" literally means "pertaining to the manner of acting or conducting oneself." The term evolved in the 19th century, particularly in psychology, to describe observable actions and their study.
Behavioral changes in children often reflect underlying emotional stress.
The study focuses on behavioral patterns in social animals.
She specializes in behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders.
Environmental factors can influence behavioral outcomes.
The researcher analyzed behavioral data from the experiment.