Problem: As a behavior analyst, using a mentalistic approach to describe the cause of behavior leads to using circular reasoning, hypothetical constructs, and explanatory fiction to define the cause of behavior. These explanations are based off assumptions and not based on observed behavior in the environment they occur. This prevents the behavior analyst from creating behavior intervention plans. Using the mentalistic approach, someone can say "John is bad because he is always running out of the classroom." This does not identify the environmental stimuli responsible for the behavior. However, from a behavior analytic approach, "When it is time to do a worksheet, John runs out of the class and Ms. Thomas sends him to the office." Having this information allows a behavior analyst to develop an intervention to decrease the escape behavior. Need Assignment Help?