Bowlby's learning theory evaluation

Question 1

name an evaluation point

Answer 1

learning theory is based on animal studies with animals such as rats and pigeons which presumes that humans learn in the same way
this does not explain all human behaviour particular complex behaviours like attachment
this explanation is overly simplified and low in validity

Question 2

Name a second evaluation point

Answer 2

attachment is not based on food
there is strong evidence to show that attachment is not linked to food such as Harlow’s research and Schaffer and Emersons research
quality of care is an important element of attachment

Question 3

Name a third evaluation point

Answer 3

learning theory still has explanatory power
it can explain some explanations of attachment
infants do learn through reinforcement or punishment but food may not be the primary reinforcer
attention and responsiveness is important from caregivers as it enhances the development of attachment
responsiveness is also something that infants imitate
this theory still has some value

Question 4

name a final evaluation of this explanation

Answer 4

there has been an alternative explanation
Bowlby’s theory has more appeal it explains why an attachment forms rather than how
i.e it can explain schaffer and emmersons findings that infants are likely to form an attachment with someone providing comfort
Bowlby’s theory offers a more complete explanation