Keywords Flashcards
Epigenetic effects
Candidate genes
Inference
The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate on the basis of observed behaviour
Paradigm
Introspection
Behaviourist approach
A way of explaining behaviour in terms of what is observable and in terms of learning
Classical conditioning
Learning by association. Occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired together - an UCS and a NS. The neutral stimulus eventually produces the same response as the UCS
Operant conditioning
A form of learning in which behaviour is shaped and maintained by its consequences. Possible consequences of behaviour include positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement or punishment
Reinforement
A consequence of behaviour that increases the likelihood of that behaviour being repeated. Can be positive or negative
Positive reinforcement
Negative reinforcement
Punishment
Social learning theory
A way of explaining behaviour that includes both direct and indirect reinforcement, combining learning theory with the role of cognitive factors
Imitation
Copying the behaviour of others
Identification
When an observer associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like the role model
Modelling
From the observer’s perspective, modelling is imitating the behaviour of a role model. From the role model’s perspective, modelling is the precise demonstration of a specific behaviour that may be imitated by an observer
Vicarious reinforcement
Reinforcement which is not directly experienced but occurs through observing someone else being reinforced for a behaviour. This is a key factor in imitation
