Evaluation For Learning Theory

Question 1

Strength: scientific basis

Answer 1

The learning theory is grounded in behaviourism, which relies on empirical evidence making it more scientific. It relies on empirical evidence as its based on observable behaviour and the principles of cc and oc providing a clear and measurable framework

Question 2

Strength: supporting evidence of the learning theory

Answer 2

Research by dollard and miller 1950 suggests that attachment behaviours are learned through interactions with caregivers, supporting the idea that reinforcement plays a role in attachment formation

Question 3

Weakness: reductionist

Answer 3

Too simplistic. Focuses on observable behaviour and ignores the cognitive and emotional complexities of attachment, such as the role of the child’s innate predispositions. Suggests that the only explanation of behaviour is cc and oc but other scientific evidence presents the idea that behaviour relies on the biological stance so there’s a lot of contradicting data

Question 4

Weakness: contradictory research

Answer 4

Stiudues like harlows research with rhesus monkeys 1958 shows that infant monkeys preferred comfort from the cloth monkey rather than food from the wire monkey even when given a choice. Undermining the idea that attachment is primarily formed thru the provision of food or reinforcement

Question 5

Weakness: ethical issues and generalisation

Answer 5

The use of animals in harlows research raise ethical concerns. Findings from animal studies may not always generalise to human attachment behaviour which is more complex, so less representative