Learning theory

Question 1

What are predictions of learning theory?

Answer 1

The child will form attachments based on primary caregiver provision (especially feeding), attachment behaviour should increase from birth and the strongest attachments will be with those who provide the most primary care

Question 2

How does learning theory explain attachment?

Answer 2

Infant and carer are each rewarded by closeness to or interaction with the other so being close to carer is pleasurable therefore attachment forms (proximity seeking and separation anxiety)

Question 3

What is an example of classical conditioning in infants?

Answer 3

Food (UCS) provides pleasure (UCR), primary caregiver (NS) becomes associated with food, becoming a CS, producing pleasure

Question 4

What is an example of operant conditioning in infants?

Answer 4

Crying is positively reinforced by attention

Question 5

What is an example of operant conditioning in caregivers?

Answer 5

Attention is negatively reinforced by cessation of crying