Attachment-Expantions of Atrahcment:learning Theory Flashcards
Learning theory of attachment
Learning theory
Definition-
Group of explanations (classical and operant conditioning) which explains behaviour in terms of learning rather than any inborn tendencies or high-order thinking.
Operant conditioning-
Learning through reinforcement
Classical conditioning-
Learning through association
What happens in classical conditioning?
A neutral stimulus is consistently paired with an unconditioned stimulus so that it eventually takes the place of the properties of the the stimulus able to produce a conditioned response
UCS = UCR
NS = no response
During conditioning:
NS and UCS paired
After conditioning:
NS becomes CS = CR
What happens in operant conditioning
Drive reduction theory “drive to reduce discomfort”
Positive reinforcement
Evaluation:
Learning theory is based on research with animals-
What do behaviourist believe
What do non/behaviours argue?
They believe humans are actually no different from other animals in terms of how they learn.
Argue it is legitimate to generalise animal studies to human behaviour.
That attachment involves innate predispositions and mental activity however behaviourists explanations may lack validity because they present an oversimplified version of human behaviour
Evaluation-
Contact comfort is more important than food
Main limitation of learning theory? 🍛🚫
Who’s study was Harlow supported by
It suggest food is key element in formation of attachment while there is strong evidence to show feeding has nothing to do with attachment
Schafer and Emerson
Evaluation-
Learning theory has some explanatory power (not full explanation but some value)-
What could be an alternative reinforcer not accounted for in the learning theory?
What can responsive in regard to learning theory?
Attention and responsiveness from caregiver
Infants imitate and thus learn about how to conduct relationships.
