Evaluate Classical Conditioning (8 marks)

Question 1

CREDIBILITY - Research is scientific

Answer 1

• Research is scientific
• It is carried out on animals in lab conditions or using brain image techniques such as MRI scans. The theory looks at behaviors, every steps in the the conditioning process is observable
• Adds to the credibility of the theory as you can see it happen with your own eyes

Question 2

CREDBILITY - SUPPORTS WATSON AND RAYNER

Answer 2

• Research support Watson and Rayner (1920). Pavlov (1927)
• Watson and Rayner used classical conditioning to produce a phobia in Little Albert. →
• Shows classical conditioning explains human behaviour. →

Question 3

OBJECTIONS - The theory focuses on the nature/nurture debate.

Answer 3

• The theory focuses on the nature/nurture debate.
• It is possible that some people are born with predispositions towards behaviours, rather than learning them through conditioning.
• Many critics of Barlow’s ‘gay cures’ would say people are born with their sexual orientation; they don’t learn it and cannot be expected to unlearn it.

Question 4

OBJECTIONS - Theory entirely focuses on behaviors and ignores conditions

Answer 4

• Theory entirely focuses on behaviors and ignores conditions
• Cognition are thought-like processes and include things like personality, will power and motivation
• Sigmund Freud argued that a lot of self destructive behaviour comes from hidden thought processes in the unconscious mind and are not learned and cannot be un learned as easily