Behaviourist Debate

Question 1

Effectiveness Of Conditioning

Answer 1

FOR:
Helpful for children with disabilities who can’t follow traditional behaviour systems, sets clear goals

*Helps these children better settle into normal society making school etc.. easier

AGAINST:
Possibly creates lazier children if expecting rewards, opposes point of conditioning in first place

*Creates lazy workers, doesn’t benefit society

Question 2

Conditioning At Home

Answer 2

FOR:
University of Michigan - ‘Time Out’ punishment doesn’t make more aggressive/ increase anxiety

*More ethical than physical punishment = may teach violence

AGAINST:
Morris - Time Out only effective if parents consistent, may cause confusion about what can and can’t do

*Psychological harm if children being confused, unethical?

Question 3

Conditioning At School

Answer 3

FOR:
McAllister - Class with reward/ punishment = Less inappropriate talking, opposite for control

*Better education positive multiplier effect

AGAINST:
Psychology Today Article - Reward makes children lazy, may only do schoolwork if given reward