Learning Theory as an Explanation of Addiction Flashcards
1
Q
Give a brief overview of learning theory.
A
behaviour is learned through associations and experiences.
2
Q
What are the three forms of learning?
A
- Classical conditioning
- Operant conditioning - learning through reinforcement
- Social learning - learning through observation
3
Q
Explain what classical conditioning is.
A
- Learning through association - hen we experience one of these things, the other is automatically triggered.
- If the substance is linked to a positive feeling, then they will come back to it b/c they know they will feel good.
4
Q
Explain what operant conditioning is.
A
- Learning through reinforcement - rewarded behaviours are good and are repeated, but punished behaviours are bad and so are avoided.
- If an addiction makes them feel good, it reinforces the behaviour and makes them repeated behaviours.
- Some addictions lead to withdrawal, so they may continue with their addiction to avoid feeling bad.
5
Q
Explain what social learning is.
A
- Learning through observation - espec. of those considered role models
- Addictive behaviours ca be learned by observing a role model’s addictive behaviour and imitating it.
6
Q
Give two strengths of learning theory.
A
- Can assume addictions can be unlearned.
- any addiction can be treatable if the association of the consequences can be re-learned to avoid the problem behaviour. - Classical conditioning explains relapse.
- A previous addict may relapse when they are in a situation that they used to associate with the substance.
7
Q
Give two weaknesses of learning theory.
A
- Doesn’t explain why only some develop addictions.
- Suggests anyone with experience of these should develop addiction. - Ignores the role of biological factors.
- There are pathways in the brain that reward us internally by releasing feel-good chemicals, which suggests an interaction between internal and external factors
