Behavioural sciences

For the movement within psychology, see Behaviourism.
"Behavior analysis" redirects here. For other uses, see Behavior analysis (disambiguation).

Behavioural science is the branch of science concerned with human behaviour.[1] While the term can technically be applied to the study of behaviour amongst all living organisms, it is nearly always used with reference to humans as the primary target of investigation (though animals may be studied in some instances, e.g. invasive techniques). The behavioural sciences sit at the interstice between conventionally natural and social sciences, encompassing fields such as psychology, neuroscience and economics.

In addition to pure science, behavioural science is increasingly understood as a practical discipline relevant for business, healthcare and government; here it is often referred to as behavioural insights.[2]

  1. ^ Hallsworth, M. (2023). A manifesto for applying behavioural science. Nature Human Behaviour, 7(3), 310-322.
  2. ^ Sanders, M., Snijders, V., & Hallsworth, M. (2018). Behavioural science and policy: where are we now and where are we going?. Behavioural Public Policy, 2(2), 144-167.