learning theory - evaluation

Answer 1

• principles of conditioning have been applied to a broad range of real world behaviours and problems

Question 2

strength

Answer 2

A Strength of Pavlov’s research evidence for Classical Conditioning is his use of experimental methods which uses controlled conditions in an attempt to discover
relationships between variables. This allowed Pavlov to accurately measure the effects on
the stimulus on the dog’s behavior and to establish a cause and effect relationship. This
adds internal validity to the research and therefore validity to the Behaviorist approach
whilst also allowing the research to be able to be replicated to increase its reliability

Question 3

strength

Answer 3

The behaviourist approach focuses on the measurement of observable
characteristics. In addition to this, the method of data collection used is
systematic, reliable and objective, so it plays a role in establishing psychology
as a credible scientific discipline.

Question 4

strength

Answer 4

Much of the research used to support the behaviourist approach has been
conducted on animals. As a result, caution must be taken when applying the
findings of such research to humans.

Question 5

strength

Answer 5

In addition to this, the use of animals in research by behaviourists has been
criticised. In Skinner’s study involving rats- the rats were shocked when they
didn’t perform a certain behaviour.. Subjecting the mice to these aversive
conditions is unethical.

Question 6

limitation

Answer 6

This approach contrasts the biological approach which states that behavior
is innate- rather than learned, which also takes the opposite stance in the
nature-nurture debate, advocating nature, whilst the behavioral approach
advocates nurture.