Which theory posits that people are born as a "blank slate" in relation to personality development?

The behaviorist theory posits that individuals are born as a "blank slate," which implies that their personalities and behaviors are primarily shaped by environmental factors and experiences rather than innate traits or biological predispositions. Key figures such as B.F. Skinner and John Watson emphasized that behavior can be modified through conditioning, suggesting that learning occurs through interactions with the environment.

Behaviorists argue that personal development and behavior are influenced by rewards and punishments, and that observable behaviors should be the focus of scientific study in psychology. This contrasts with other approaches, such as psychoanalytic theory, which emphasizes inner drives and unconscious processes; humanistic theory, which focuses on intrinsic motivation and personal growth; and social cognitive theory, which integrates cognitive processes along with social interactions in understanding behavior. By understanding behavior as a result of learned experiences, the behaviorist perspective highlights the role of the environment in shaping individual differences and personality development.