behavioral science

American  

noun

1. a science or branch of learning, as psychology or sociology, that derives its concepts from observation of the behavior of living organisms.

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behavioral science Scientific  

/ bĭ-hāv′yə-rəl /

1. Any of various scientific disciplines, such as sociology, anthropology, or psychology, in which the actions and reactions of humans and animals are studied through observational and experimental methods.

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Other Word Forms

• behavioral scientist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of behavioral science

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

behavioral science

These kinds of “nudges,” informed by behavioral science, don’t force anyone to give up social media.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 2, 2025

The Reid Technique, as it came to be known, relies on insights from behavioral science to help police officers determine if a suspect is likely guilty, or if a witness is telling the truth.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 23, 2024

Brussels’ success reveals both a strength and a limitation of using behavioral science to guide transportation policymaking.

From Slate ● Dec. 3, 2024

We use experts in behavioral science, facial coding, galvanic skin response, and other subjects and research methods as well.

From Salon ● Oct. 1, 2024

Almost pathologically observant, Alec is based on Dan Ariely, a superstar in the field of behavioral science, and Martin has absorbed a morsel of those powers.

From New York Times ● Feb. 4, 2024