Hippocrates, a physician of ancient times, supported which view about problem behavior?

• A. Evil spirits
• B. Natural causes
• C. Demonic possession
• D. Astrology

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that early medical thinkers like Hippocrates explained problem behavior with natural causes rather than supernatural forces. Hippocrates argued that illness and changes in behavior arise from natural imbalances in the body—most famously the balance of bodily humors (such as blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile) and other natural factors—rather than from evil spirits or demonic forces. This approach centers on observation, rational reasoning, and treatment through natural means like diet, rest, exercise, and environment to restore balance. While many ancient beliefs attributed illness to celestial influence or possession, Hippocrates shifted the focus to what can be observed, measured, and treated in the body, making natural causes the best explanation for problem behavior.