Behaviourist approach Flashcards
What is the main assumption of behaviourlism?
We are all born as blank slates
What side of the nature vs nurture debate does behaviourism sit on?
Extreme nurture
What does behaviourism focus on?
Observable behaviour + objectivity
What are the two main form of learning?
Classical conditioning and Operant conditioning
What is classical conditioning and who researched it?
Learning through association with Pavlov’s dogs
What is Operant conditioning and who researched it?
Learning through consequence through the Skinner box
Define reinforcement
A consequence of behaviour that increases the likelihood of that behaviour being repeated. Positive or negative.
Define positive reinforcement
A stimulus that increases the probability that a behaviour will be repeated because it’s pleasurable.
Define negative reinforcement
A stimulus that increases the probability that a behaviour will be repeated because it leads to escape from an unpleasant situation.
Define punishment
Any procedure that decreases the likelihood that a behaviour will be repeated because the overall experience is unpleasant.
Define continuous reinforcement
The desired behaviour is reinforced every single time it occurs, may result in a stronger response.
Define partial reinforcement
The response is reinforced only some of the time, may have a weaker effect.
