Behaviourist approach

Question 1

What is the behaviourist approach ?

Answer 1

A way of explaining behaviour in terms of what is observable and learning

Question 2

Assumptions of behaviourist approach

Answer 2

• Interested in what is observable and measured
  -Not interested in mental processes of the mind
  -Behaviourists tried to obtain more control and objectivity within their research
  -Relied on lab experiments
  -Behaviourists suggested the basic processes that govern learning are the same in all species.

Question 3

What are the two forms of learning ?

Answer 3

-Classical conditioning - pavlov
Operant conditioning - skinner

Question 4

What is classical conditioning ?

Answer 4

It is learning through association.
When two stimuli are repeatedly paired together - an unconditioned stimulus and a new neutral stimulus - and the neutral stimulus produces the same response.

Question 5

Pavlov’s research :

Answer 5

1) Before conditioning ; Food (UCS ) -> Salivation (UCR)
2)Before conditioning ; Bell (NS) -> no salivation (no CR)
3)During conditioning ; Bell + Food -> salivation (UCR)
4)After conditioning ; Bell (CS) -> Salivation (CR)

Question 6

What is operant conditioning ?

Answer 6

A form of learning through learning through consequences. Behaviour is maintained by consequences

Question 7

What is reinforcement ?

Answer 7

A consequence of a behaviour that increases the likelihood of that a behaviour is repeated ; can be positive or negative

Question 8

Skinner’s research :

Answer 8

BF skinner 1953. Skinner box : Skinner conducted experiments with rats and sometimes pigeons, in skinner boxes.
-Everytime the rat activated a lever , it was rewarded with a food pellet-> this behaviour would be repeated
-Electric shock was also given

Question 9

3 types of consequences of behaviour :

Answer 9

Postive reinforcement
Negative reinforcement
Punishment

Question 10

Postive reinforcement :

Answer 10

Receiving an award when a behaviour is performed ; eg. praise from a teacher

Question 11

Negative reinforcement :

Answer 11

Occurs when an animal avoids something unpleasant - eg.student hands in essay to prevent being told off - avoidance of negative reinforcement.

Question 12

Punishment :

Answer 12

Punishment : An unpleasant consequence of behaviour , eg- being shouted at by the teacher

Question 13

What do positive and negative reinforcement cause ?

Answer 13

They increase the liklihood that behaviour will be repeated. Punishment decreases the likelihood that behaviour will be repeated