Learning Theories

Question 1

What four general theories try to answer the question of mechanisms of change?

Answer 1

Psychoanalytical theories
¡Learning theories
¡Theories of Social cognition
¡Ecological theories

Question 2

Define observational learning

Answer 2

An observer’s behaviour changes as a result of
observing a model via:
•Imitation
• Vicarious punishment and vicarious
reinforcement

Question 3

Define classical conditioning

Answer 3

A UCS, which causes a UCR, can be paired with a NS, and eventually just the presence of the NS causes the UCR, which is now called the CR.

Question 4

Negative reinforcer

Answer 4

removal of something unpleasant

Question 5

What are the four areas of inquiry in child development?

Answer 5

1. Domains of development
2. Type of change
3. Mechanisms of change
4. Individual/Population differences

Question 6

Positive reinforcer

Answer 6

presentation of something pleasant

Question 7

Define Operant conditioning

Answer 7

Reinforcments or punishments are given to either promote or destroy certain behaviour

Question 8

Define punisher

Answer 8

any consequence that makes a
response less likely to occur again, either
through the presentation of something
unpleasant or the removal of something
desirable

Question 9

Define habituation

Answer 9

Decrease in response to repeated or continued

stimulation

Question 10

What are the four types of learning

Answer 10

Habituation
Classical conditioning
Operant learning
Observational learning

Question 11

Define learning

Answer 11

a relatively permanent change in behavior from experience or practice

Question 12

Define Observational learning

Answer 12

An observers behaviour changes as a result of observing a model

Question 13

Define vicarious punishment

Answer 13

Punishing consequences experienced by the model influence the observers behaviour

Question 14

Define vicarious reinforcement

Answer 14

Rewarding consequences experienced by the model influence the observers behaviour

Question 15

Define imitation

Answer 15

a) Behaviour of an observer that is similar or the same to the behaviour of the model

Question 16

Define Response inhibition

Answer 16

i) Not displaying a particular behaviour that has just been modelled, often with regards to vicarious punishment