learning theory gambling

Question 1

strength:produced real-life applications.

Answer 1

E – For example, covert sensitization is a treatment for gambling addiction that was developed using the principles of learning theory. McConaghy (1983) found that a year after receiving covert sensitisation, 90% of patients had reduced their gambling.

E – The fact that learning theory’s explanation for gambling addiction has led to the development of a seemingly successful treatment for gambling addiction shows the theory has useful applications.
L – Ultimately, this study provides some support for learning theory as an explanation for gambling addiction, albeit very limited support given the issues with this study’s design.

Question 2

limitation:ignores the role of free will

Answer 2

E – According to learning theory, a person will begin to gamble if they are exposed to role models who gamble. They will then keep gambling because of the strong positive reinforcement schedule offered by gambling.

E – This explanation is deterministic, as it sets out an account of how addicts behave because of a series of prior events.