What does functionalism focus on?

Functionalism is a psychological perspective that emphasizes the functions and purposes of the mind and behavior in an individual's adaptation to the environment. It is concerned primarily with the "how" of behavior, focusing on the processes that enable individuals to interact effectively with their surroundings. This view aligns closely with the ideas of evolutionary theory, suggesting that mental processes and behavioral patterns have developed to help individuals survive and thrive.

By examining the functions of mental processes, such as thinking, learning, and emotion, functionalism seeks to understand why behaviors occur rather than just identifying their structural components or biological underpinnings. This approach is significantly more oriented toward practical implications and the adaptive significance of behaviors compared to other frameworks that might concentrate solely on the components or constraints related to those behaviors. Thus, it highlights the importance of examining how mental activities contribute to everyday functioning, fitting accurately with the concept of focusing on the "how" part of behavior.