Learning theory Flashcards
what is learning theory?
children learn to become attached to their caregiver because they give them food
often referred to as ‘cupboard love’
what are the two ways associations can be made between different stimuli?
classical conditioning
operant conditioning
what is classical conditioning?
leaning by association
what is operant conditioning?
learning by reinforcement
what is drive reduction theory?
in operant conditioning
food is a PRIMARY REINFORCER as it directly satisfies hunger
the caregiver is a SECONDARY REINFORCER as they are associated with the primary reinforcer (food)
what did Dollard and Miller say?
attachment combines the two types of conditioning
what are criticisms of learning theory?
schaffer and emerson - sensitive responsitivness
harlow - contact comfort
lorenz - imprinted of the first moving thing they saw
