Behavioural (learning) addiction.

Question 1

Outline the role of classical conditioning in addiction.

Answer 1

S/R/A. UCS = sitting with group of friends. UCR = relaxation. NS = smoking. through repetition and association of smoking and relaxing, the NS becomes the CS, producing the CR of relaxation.

Question 2

Describe Wikler’s research.

Answer 2

patients treated for drug addiction more likely to relapse when going back to places they used to use in. associate the place with addiction.

Question 3

Outline the role of operant conditioning in addiction.

Answer 3

R+R. Positive reinforcement - behaviour has a pleasurable/rewarding consequence (e.g. relaxing, winning). Negative reinforcement - the behaviour removes an unpleasant consequence. (e.g. relief from withdrawal symptoms).

Question 4

Outline the role of SLT in addiction.

Answer 4

Learn through observing others. Watch our parents smoke/gamble - see it as rewarding/attractive. Media/celebrity influence.

Question 5

Evaluate the Learning Model.

Answer 5

Reductionist. Deterministic. Lacks scientific validity. Nurture.