Learning Theory: Explanation for Attachment

Question 1

what approach is used to explain this?

Answer 1

behaviourism

Question 2

classical conditioning with babies

Answer 2

UCS (food) –> UCR (happy)
UCS + NS (mum)
CS (mum) –> CR (happy)

Question 3

classical conditioning & crying

Answer 3

• newborns cry in response to unpleasant states
• parent responds to the need & the baby learns an association

Question 4

operant conditioning

Answer 4

• infant learns that crying & smiling bring + response from adults (reinforcement)
• adult learns that responding to cries brings relief from noise (negative reinforcement)

Question 5

drive theory

Answer 5

DOLLARD & MILLER
- we’re motivated to seek a reward
- hunger & food becomes the primary reinforcer

Question 6

main predictions of learning theory

Answer 6

attachment behaviour should increase steadily from birth
- strongest attachments will be with those who provide the most primary care

Question 7

EVALUATION - g

Answer 7

GENERALISABILITY
can we compare complex behaviour to this simplified behaviour in rats & dogs?

Question 8

EVALUATION - m

Answer 8

MORE THAN JUST FOOD
- harlow
- schaffer & emerson = main attachment wasn’t always the one who provided food

Question 9

EVALUATION - d

Answer 9

DRIVE REDUCTION THEORY
- has since been rejected
- not always driven by a need to be comfortable