Learning Theory of Attachment - Attachment

Question 1

Key Concepts of Learning Theory

Answer 1

Focuses on nurture, not nature, suggesting behaviour is learned from experiences.
Attachment develops through classical and operant conditioning.

Question 2

Classical Conditioning

Answer 2

UCS (food) produces UCR (pleasure).
Caregiver starts as NS but becomes CS after consistent pairing with food.
Seeing the caregiver alone (CS) elicits pleasure (CR).
Known as “mother love.”

Question 3

Operant Conditioning

Answer 3

Based on reinforcement:
Positive reinforcement. (food and hunger)
Negative reinforcement (caregiver reduces discomfort from crying).
Infant learns caregiver reduces discomfort, attachment is strengthened

Question 4

Social Learning Theory

Answer 4

Proposed by Bandura (1989).
Infants observe and imitate parents’ affectionate behaviours.
Parents reinforce attachment by modelling loving interactions.