Evaluate Skinner’s theory of language development. (8)

Question 1

Skinner’s theory of language is founded on the principles of reinforcement and punishment from operant conditioning.

Answer 1

Skinner’s theory can be applied to the teaching of language, with objects or pictures presented as an antecedent to elicit the behavioural language response from a child with consequences given for correct use of words or speech.

Question 2

Primary reinforcers, such as food, are rewards that Skinner claims encourage early language learning of basic words that focus on functional necessity to meet survival needs.

Answer 2

The theory fits with logical understanding of the development of babies, where they seek comfort or nourishment as babies, using basic communication and then words to name their needs, such as ‘milk’.

Question 3

Skinner suggested positive reinforcement encourages language development as children will repeat words when they are praised.

Answer 3

Chomsky claimed that we are born with an innate language acquisition device so language development occurs without the need for stimuli or reinforcement.

Question 4

When children are not reinforced with a desired consequence for words used, they do not repeat the behaviour of incorrect language.

Answer 4

Skinner’s claims lack plausibility as children do not repeat words exactly as they hear them but continue to construct language with
inaccuracies regardless of praise up to about 5 years old.