Human Behavior Defined
Human behavior is the potential and expressed capacity (mentally, physically, and socially) of
human individuals or groups to respond to internal and external stimuli throughout their life.
Behavior is driven by genetic and environmental factors that affect an individual. Behavior is
also driven, in part, by thoughts and feelings, which provide insight into individual psyche,
revealing such things as attitudes and values. Human behavior is shaped by psychological traits,
as personality types vary from person to person, producing different actions and behavior.
Social behavior accounts for actions directed at others. It is concerned with the considerable
influence of social interaction and culture, as well as ethics, interpersonal relationships, politics,
and conflict. Some behaviors are common while others are unusual. The acceptability of
behavior depends upon social norms and is regulated by various means of social control. Social
norms also condition behavior, whereby humans are pressured into following certain rules and
displaying certain behaviors that are deemed acceptable or unacceptable depending on the
given society or culture.
Cognitive behavior accounts for actions of obtaining and using knowledge. It is concerned with
how information is learned and passed on, as well as creative application of knowledge and
personal beliefs such as religion. Physiological behavior accounts for actions to maintain the
body. It is concerned with basic bodily functions as well as measures taken to maintain health.
Economic behavior accounts for actions regarding the development, organization, and use of
materials as well as other forms of work. Ecological behavior accounts for actions involving the
ecosystem. It is concerned with how humans interact with other organisms and how the
environment shapes human behavior.
