Behaviourism

Question 1

Describe the assumptions of the behaviourist approach.

Answer 1

Observable behaviour is all that is needed to be studied. Basic processed same in all species. Behaviourists believe all behaviour is learnt (baby’s mind is a blank slate).

Rely on lab studies and objectivity

Question 2

Who did research into classical conditioning?

Answer 2

Pavlov (dogs)

Question 3

Describe Pavlov and classical conditioning

Answer 3

Learning through association.
Pavlov showed how dogs could be conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell if the sound was heard repeatedly at the same time as being fed.

Neutral stimulus (bell) can induce a new learnt response (conditioned response) via association (associating bell with being fed so will salivate at sound of a bell)

Question 4

Who investigated operant conditioning

Answer 4

Skinner (rats)

Question 5

Describe skinner and operant conditioning.

Answer 5

Suggested learning is an active process where humans and animals operate on their environment.

Question 6

What is positive reinforcement

Answer 6

Receiving a reward when a certain behaviour is performed

Question 7

What is negative reinforcement

Answer 7

Avoid something unpleasant the outcome is positive.

Eg. Skinners rat —-> pressing a lever leads to no electric shock

Question 8

What is punishment?

Answer 8

Unpleasant consequence of behaviours eg. Shouted at

Question 9

Describe how the research is well controlled (AO3)

Answer 9

Behaviourists focus on the measurement of observable behaviour in a highly controlled lab. Breaking down behaviour into basic stimulus response units. All other extraneous variables removed. Allow cause and effect relationships to be studied/ identified.

Question 10

What is the counterpoint of well controlled observation? (AO3)

Answer 10

May have oversimplified the learning processes by reducing it to simpler components. May ignored other important influences on behaviour eg. Human thought. Suggests learning is more complex than observable behaviour alone.

Question 11

Describe another strength of behaviourist approach (AO3)

Answer 11

Real world application
Principles of conditioning have been applied to real world behaviours. Eg. Operant conditioning is basis of token economies in prisons etc..

Increases value of behaviourist approach as it has widespread application