Understanding and influencing human behavior is crucial for a variety of reasons, people with whom we work every day, deal on regular basis, for our personal growth and strong relationships for effective teamwork and societal progress. Good behavior fosters positive environments, builds trust, and contributes to a safer and more inclusive society. It also impacts mental and emotional well-being and can influence productivity and success in various aspects of life. 

Personality is fixed and it’s difficult to change, so it makes sense to focus our efforts at the point where changes can be made. Since behaviour is within our condition of control, affirmative feedback on behaviour offers a positive lead for personal development, showing where and how we can adapt to meet the needs of a particular situation or job role. Counselling largely helps to change our behaviour.

Behaviorism is a branch of psychology which primarily studies observable actions and responses, rather than internal mental processes like thoughts or feelings. It suggests that behaviors are learned through two main types of conditioning: classical conditioning which is associating stimuli with responses and modified conditioning  which is learning through consequences of behavior. I list here below few famous theories of behaviourism.

John B. Watson’s classical behaviourism

Watson’s theory focused on observable behavior as the primary subject of psychological study, rejecting introspection and mental processes. He believed that behavior is learned through conditioning and can be manipulated by environmental stimuli, emphasizing the role of external factors over internal ones. His experiment famously known as ‘the little Albert experiment’, conducted by John Watson and Rosalie Rayner in 1920, aimed to demonstrate that fear could be conditioned in humans through classical conditioning. The experiment involved a nine-month-old baby, Albert, who was initially not afraid of a white rat. Researchers repeatedly paired the rat with a loud, startling noise, causing Albert to associate the rat with the noise and eventually fear the rat itself. The white rat was initially a neutral stimulus, meaning Albert didn’t have an innate fear of it. The loud noise was the unconditioned stimulus, which naturally caused fear in a way the unconditioned response in Albert. 

Watson argued that only behaviors that can be observed and measured objectively are valid in scientific psychology. He believed that behaviors are learned through conditioning, where provocations in the environment are paired with responses, leading to learned associations. Watson rejected the study of thoughts, feelings, and other internal mental processes, arguing that they are not directly observable and therefore not suitable for scientific study. Watson emphasized the role of environmental factors in shaping behavior, suggesting that individuals can be trained to exhibit specific behaviors through conditioning. 

B.F. Skinner’s Reinforcement Theory

Skinner’s behaviorism theory, also known as radical behaviorism, suggests that all behavior is learned through interactions with the environment, primarily through reinforcement and punishment. This theory emphasizes observable behaviors and argues that internal mental states like thoughts are not relevant for understanding behavior. Skinner’s work focused on challenging conditioning, where behaviors are modified by their consequences. It is built on the assumption that behaviour is influenced by its consequences. Reinforcement theory is the process of shaping behavior by controlling consequences of the behavior. Reinforcement theory proposes that you can change someone’s behaviour by using reinforcement, punishment, and elimination. I give here example of Abraham Lincoln who was the president of the United States in a pivotal moment during the Civil War. Although he was assassinated before completing his term as president, the relentless work ethic and unmatched communication skills that Abraham Lincoln showcased while healing the fractured country made him one of the greatest leaders in U.S. history.

Pavlov’s theory of Classical Conditioning

This is rooted in the idea that behavior is the result of conditioning. He believed that behavior is learned through the process of classical conditioning, where behavior is shaped through the association of stimuli in the environment. His discoveries provided a framework for understanding how behaviors are acquired. His experiments primarily involved dogs, but the principles he discovered have far-reaching implications for understanding human behaviour as well. Classical conditioning, the foundation of Pavlov’s theory, involves pairing a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response. In one of his famous experiments, Pavlov observed that dogs naturally salivated when presented with food, an unconditioned stimulus. However, through repeated pairings of a neutral stimulus, such as a bell, with the food, the dogs eventually began to associate the bell with the arrival of food. As a result, they started salivating at the sound of the bell alone, even in the absence of the food. This conditioned response demonstrated the formation of a new association between the neutral stimulus and the unconditioned stimulus. Mental conditioning is a process which depends on experience, it takes efforts of training your mind to modify your thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs to accept thinking patterns.

Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development

This theory proposes that behaviourism develops through eight stages, each marked by a unique milestone, crisis or challenge that individuals must manage through. These crises involve a struggle between opposing forces, such as trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, initiative vs Guilt, Industry vs inferiority , identity vs Role Confusion, intimacy vs Isolation, Generativity vs Stagnation and Ego Integrity vs Despair. When individuals successfully resolve each crisis, it leads to the development of specific virtues and psychological strengths, while failure can result in difficulties in future stages Our early life experience is very important in terms of  how we grow as individuals.  Our identity evolves at various stages of life; how we perceive and present ourselves throughout our lives, as per our own sense of identity; we keep searching and understanding ‘who we are’. Understanding this process can lead people to question their ‘negative’ identity labelled by society. Half of life is spent in making big changes in the way we perceive ourselves.  Our personalities keep changing as we resolve crises in life; thus, each experience brings a change within us.

Thorndike’s theory of connectionism

This theory suggests that learning is the result of forming connections between stimuli and responses. This theory, developed by Edward Lee Thorndike, is a foundation of behaviorism, explaining learning as a “stamping in” or strengthening of S-R bonds. Thorndike’s work also established three key laws of learning: the Law of Readiness, the Law of Exercise, and the Law of Effect. Thorndike’s theory of connectionism, also known as stimulus-response (S-R) theory, suggests that learning involves forming connections or associations between stimuli and responses. These connections, or bonds, are strengthened by satisfying consequences and weakened by unsatisfying ones. Thorndike’s theory is based on his experiments with cats in puzzle boxes, where he observed that learning occurred through trial and error. The key aspects of Thorndike’s connectionism are i) learning occurs through the formation of connections between a stimulus – something that triggers a response and a response  which is a behavior or action. Ii) Learning is a process of trying different responses until the correct one is found and rewarded. Iii) Behaviors followed by satisfying moments are strengthened, while behaviors followed by annoying consequences are weakened. Iv) Frequent practice strengthens connections, while lack of practice weakens them.  V) When an individual is ready to act in a particular way, a response is likely to follow. 

Jerome Bruner’s theory of cognitive development

This theory states that children construct their own learning through organising, categorising and then coding information. He believed that the most effective way to do this is to discover information rather than being told it by a teacher. Jerome Bruner’s theory of cognitive development emphasizes that learning occurs through three modes of representation: enactive, iconic, and symbolic. These modes represent how individuals process and represent knowledge, changing with age with mental and physical development. Bruner believed that children could learn difficult concepts with appropriate instruction, and that learning is a continuous process, not a series of stages. They say children are mirror image of their parents and surrounding. Enactive mode, prevalent in early childhood around 0-3 years, involves learning through direct action and manipulation of objects. For example, a baby might learn about size by comparing different-sized colour crayons. The iconic mode starts around 3-7 years; children begin to use images and mental representations to represent experiences. They might use drawings or pictures to recall events or objects. From about 7 years onward, children develop the ability to use symbols, like language, to represent and organize information. They can understand and use abstract concepts without needing a real visual. Bruner believed that development is a continuous process, not a series of distinct stages. 

Conclusion

In simple terms, Sigmond Freud’s theory suggests that human behavior is influenced by unconscious memories, thoughts, and urges. This theory also proposes that the psyche comprises three aspects: the id, ego, and superego. The id is entirely unconscious, while the ego operates in the conscious mind. Behaviorism is primarily associated with the belief that all behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment. It focuses on observable actions, emphasizing the role of stimuli and responses, and rejects the study of internal mental processes. Key figures in behaviorism include John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner. 

In psychology and sociology, masking is the process in which an individual disguises his/her natural personality or behavior to conform to social pressures, to fight any harm or agitation.

Personality is any person’s collection of unified behavioral pattern, cognitive and emotional threshold, how the person adjusts to life, unique personality traits such as adaptability, mindful or arrogant, dishonest etc. The character traits are interrelated patterns which comprises of human personality. The traits can change over long periods of time. Personality comprises of moods, attitudes, opinions and is most clearly expressed in interactions with other people. It includes behavioral characteristics, both inherent and acquired, that distinguish one person from another. Personality is a base to our relationship with the society.

Some people mask their original personality, which can be described as hiding one’s emotion by portraying another emotion, most often, people conceal negative emotions with positive emotions. Masking is to behave in certain ways that would help one hide or curb their emotions that are not approved by those around them. In the context of mental health, masking refers to underplaying or overplaying of behavior; it also refers to coping mechanism of an individual. It can be hiding their true thoughts, feelings, or difficulties related to their circumstances or mental health. It involves presenting oneself in a way that conforms to societal expectations or norms, even if it undermines what one is truly experiencing internally.

People engaged in masking for fear of stigma, judgment, rejection, or a desire to maintain a sense of normalcy. Masking can occur in different forms and involves suppressing emotions. It is important to admit that masking is not a healthy or sustainable strategy. Open communication, seeking professional help, and cultivating a supportive network of understanding individuals can be more beneficial in promoting mental well-being. 

How can you tell if someone is masking? Usually criminals change their body language, tone of voice, or facial expressions around specific people or in certain situations. They make less eye contact. Identifying whether someone is masking their true emotions or mental health can be challenging at times.  I quote here Rahul Gandhi – Congress Vice President and the leader of opposition in Loksabha who is caught in his masking games several times. Facing flak on social media, and from Gujarat BJP leaders, after news emerged that Rahul Gandhi’s name was entered in a register meant for “non-Hindu” visitors at Gujarat’s Somnath temple, the Congress spokesman has said the party vice-president is a Hindu who wears the sacred thread and dismissed reports on the entry in contention as “fraud’’ and a “conspiracy”.

Gandhi, the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, took a swipe at the ruling BJP in the House on Monday, saying those who call themselves Hindus are engaged in “violence” and “hatred” round the clock. Goa CM demanded apology after Rahul’s dig at BJP calling them ‘not Hindus’

In another incident as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was leaving after his first speech in Parliament after being reinstated as an MP, he blew a kiss to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs. Calling Rahul’s behaviour inappropriate, women MPs from BJP filed a complaint with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Rahul Gandhi’s behaviour is termed as many psychologists and psychiatrists that he is facing Identity Crisis, and he is Genetically or Compulsive liar and born as a crooked person and he carried a masked behaviour.  

Even Mahatma Gandhi had a masked personality. He was self-centred, and biggest hypocrite.  In his whole life Gandhi kept on shouting that, he supports ahimsa. However, at the time of the Second World War, he himself sent the Indian army to fight from England’s side. Gandhi was awarded the highest civilian award Kaiser-I-Hind (The British Ratna) for his loyalty towards the British Raj by providing Punjab regiment soldiers for World War II.  Gandhi never opposed or would never get involved in any disagreement with wealthy people like Birla, Bajaj, Tata, Wadia etc. Also, he took care not to offend Nehru who knew very well that M.K.Gandhi was a British plant (British supporter). Sarojini Naidu’s, statement says it all, “It costs a lot to keep Bapu in poverty”, confirming that money was spent to build a false favourable image of Gandhi among the Indian public. Well, Gandhi was a fully masked personality. M.K.Gandhi’s personality is an example of inconsistent emotions. The person consistently displays emotions that seem contrasting with reality and circumstances. He may have appeared compassionate, overly cheerful, positive, or composed, but was a biggest hypocrite. He cheated deadly even when facing challenging situations. There was a noticeable difference in his public and private life behaviour. On many occasions he let his guard down and show his slimy side, his greed, his lust which he couldn’t disguise.

Masking refers to an individual’s ability of hiding his identity intentionally. It often occurs unconsciously over time as an individual receives negative feedback for his true behavioural presentation. Masking also is referred to as camouflaging. Social masking is most common. It refers to when someone engages in social behaviors that do not come naturally to them, such as complimenting people unnecessarily, overfriendly behaviour, showing off false status/wealth etc.

When people mask their behaviour, consciously they change their body language, tone of voice, or facial expressions around specific people or in certain situations. Perhaps they try to force themselves to make eye contact depending on the person. Insecurities could make someone avoid eye contact. A common sign of lying is minimal eye contact. If someone’s being deceptive, they may unintentionally avert their gaze. 

Colour psychology refers to the usage of four base colours according to the European colour system. In addition to black and white as the neutral colours, the base colours also include the chromatic colours red, yellow, green, and blue. Red stimulates and increases appetite. Orange improves mood and possible thyroid function. Yellow increases concentration and possibly treats arthritis. Green is a calming color and promotes healthy metabolism. Everyone carries a colour or two splendidly.

Colors influence our emotions, mood, and behavior. It has been scientifically proved that different colors have psychological and physiological effects on people. Therefore, selecting the right colors in our house, office, school, playground, movie theatre, hospital environments have a significant impact on the experience of people. In a hospital setting the choice of colors can influence patients’ perception of their experience and their overall well-being. For example, some specific colors that can affect patients’ mental and emotional health.

Sky and ocean are blue colour. Technically, the short wavelengths that scatter across the sky relate to the colours blue and violet, making the real colour of the sky a bluish purple. However, the cone cells in our eyes which are photoreceptor cells that are in the retina of the eye which are responsible for color vision as well as eye color sensitivity that detect colour aren’t very sensitive to violet, so we see the sky as blue. Colors are the smiles of nature. 

Color is a powerful communication tool and can be used to signal action, influence mood, and even influence physiological reactions. Certain colors have been associated with physiological changes, including increased blood pressure, increased metabolism, and eyestrain.

Smokers and people with diabetes or heart disease have fewer blood vessels in their skin, and so skin would appear less rosy. The preference for more golden or ‘yellow-toned’ skin as healthier might be explained by the ‘carotenoid pigments’ that we get from the fruit and vegetables in our diet.

Do you know that subconsciously, colour affects all our senses and colours have an important effect on our appetite and the food we choose – they can make us feel hungry, sad, happy, relaxed, or energetic. 

Red fruits have several features: cherries are purifying and detoxifying, while the vitamin C contained in strawberries contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Red oranges are also part of this group. They help our body absorb the iron contained in the food we eat. Pomegranates, on the other hand, have strong natural antibacterial power. The watermelon not only a fresh summer fruit, but also a powerful fruit against tiredness thanks to its mineral salts. 

Psychologist Andrew J. Elliot tested to see if the color of a person’s clothing could make them appear more sexually appealing. He found heterosexual men and women dressed in red were significantly more likely to attract romantic attention than women dressed in any other color.

Among red vegetables we find tomatoes, helpful to keep the cholesterol on a low level, radishes that depurate and calm us, and red onions with antioxidant and diuretic functions. Red beet and chili pepper are respectively antioxidant and stimulate our metabolism. When eaten raw, tomatoes and peppers also contain vitamin C that contributes to the normal function of bones, cartilage, gums, skin, teeth, and immune system.

Yellow fruits and vegetables consist of apricots, whose vitamin A takes care of the growth of our bones, tangerines, rich in fibre and particularly helpful for the wellbeing of the bowel, and melons, full of beta-carotene and able to fight free radicals. We have peaches and bananas, both are sources of potassium, regulators of the arterial pressure and high in energy. The yellow-orange vegetables are all rich in vitamin A. Carrots are the one responsible for our eyes’ health while pumpkins preserve the integrity of skin and mucous membranes. Finally, thanks to both vitamin A and C peppers are a powerful antioxidant.

Green colored kiwis are full of vitamin C which are important for the correct function of the immune system, while grapes have an energetic effect due to the fructose and the glucose they contain. Green apple is a friend of our digestion process and thanks to its low calorie count it is a healthy snack. There are many more vegetables belonging to this group, such as broccoli and green salad, filled with antioxidants that help the circulatory system, as well as green leafy vegetables. They contain potassium and water but they both work together to promote diuresis. Equally important, green beans are rich in fibre and fight constipation, while spinach thanks to its folic acid helps us recharge our body.

Blue & purple fruits consist of plums, well known for their laxative effect due to their fibres, while black grape and raspberries are powerful antioxidants. Figs are highly recommended for people who are looking for an energy boost before their training because they contain high levels of sugar. Finally, we have currant and blueberry: the first one prevents capillary fragility while the second one takes care of both our circulatory system and eyes. Part of this vegetables group is the eggplant, full of water that helps cleanse our body, and the radicchio, rich in potassium and an ally of both the nervous and muscular system. The purple carrot is a low-calorie food and is an ideal mid-day snack.

Color can affect how memorable something is, guide attention, evoke emotions, and even influence motor function and performance. Keep in mind that these effects can differ between cultures and contexts. For example, according to Ford Data, France, and Italy Favour Cream Colours, Denmark Likes Black, Ireland opts for Silver. Blue is the most loved color by humans being preferred by more than 35% of world’s population. Love is symbolized by green in Japan, red and purple in China, Korea, Japan, and the USA. Unluckiness is symbolized by red in Republic of Chad, Nigeria, and Germany. Luckiness is symbolized by red in China, Denmark, and Argentina. The traditional bridal color is red in China and white in the USA.

The world around us is full of colours and although different people might prefer a certain hue of colour to others, we all agree that a world in black and white would not be as beautiful as one that offers an array of shades and tones.