Key people and the theories (Booklet B)

Question 1

What is Gesell’s maturation theory

Answer 1

Each development was predetermined and the environment had little influence. If a child experiences delayed development, then the problem is hereditary rather than a result of their environment. For example, a child with learning difficulties may experience delayed development but this is due to them having the learning difficulty from birth.

Question 2

What is Bandura’s social learning theory

Answer 2

Learning occurs through observing the behaviours of others. Children model behaviours for example copying dance moves. Unfortunately, children may imitate unwanted behaviour as well like hitting.

Question 3

What are the four stages of behavioural learning

Answer 3

1. The child observes the behaviour of another. (a role model)
2. The child internalises the action
3. They will reproduce the behaviour when the opportunity occurs.
4. The child would decide whether to repeat the behaviour or not

Question 4

What is the stress diathesis model

Answer 4

Explains how stress causes by life events (nurture) can interact with a person’s genetic vulnerability (nature) to impact on their mental wellbeing

Question 5

What is Holmes and Rahe social readjustment rating scale

Answer 5

Developed a questionnaire which identified major stressful life events. The higher the score the more likely to become unwell.
150 points or less- low susceptibility to stress
150-300 points- 50% chance health breakdown
300 points- 80% chance health breakdown

Question 6

What are the critics of the scale

Answer 6

Some people may find getting divorced or ending relationships a stressful time, for others it can be a relief. Major life events are not experienced very frequently but they can still experience stress in daily hassles like losing keys or traffic jams