Who is associated with the hypothesis that language determines the way we think?

Prepare for the Praxis School Psychologist Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed in your exam. Boost your readiness!

The correct choice is associated with the linguistic relativity hypothesis, often referred to as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis. This concept suggests that the structure of a language influences how its speakers conceptualize their world, effectively stating that language shapes thought processes and perceptions. The idea emphasizes that the language one speaks can affect cognitive processes, including memory, perception, and categorization.

In contrast, other figures in the list have fundamentally different focuses. Chomsky is known for his theories on the innate aspects of language acquisition and grammar, while Skinner is associated with behaviorism and learning theories, particularly focusing on operant conditioning and behavior modification. Sapir, while relevant to the conversation as a linguist, primarily laid the groundwork for the ideas later popularized by Whorf. Whorf built upon Sapir's ideas, leading to the formulation of this influential hypothesis about the relationship between language and thought.

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