Behaviourist Approach [16 marker] Flashcards
What is the main focus of the behaviourist approach?
It focuses on behaviour that can be observed and measured, rejecting introspection.
How did early behaviourists ensure objectivity in their research?
By using lab experiments.
What is classical conditioning and who researched it?
Learning through association, researched by Pavlov using dogs and a bell stimulus.
What is operant conditioning and who researched it?
Learning through reinforcement or punishment, researched by Skinner using rats in a Skinner box.
Why is the behaviourist approach considered scientific?
It focuses on observable behaviour using systematic, reliable, and objective data collection.
What is a limitation of using animals in behaviourist research?
Findings from animals may not generalize to humans.
What ethical concerns are there in Skinner’s research?
Rats were subjected to aversive conditions like electric shocks.
How does the behaviourist approach contrast with the biological approach?
It supports nurture (learned behaviour) whereas the biological approach supports nature (innate behaviour).
