learning theory

Question 1

how does learning theory suggest attachments developed?

Answer 1

classical and operant conditioning

Question 2

describe the explanation of classical conditioning in learning therapy (8)

Answer 2

● baby has to learn to from attachment with mother

● classical conditioning - baby forms association between mother (neutral stimulus) and feeling of pleasure that comes from being fed (innate, unconditioned response)

● at first baby simply feels comforted by food (unconditioned stimulus)

● each time they are fed, mother is there too

● so, they quickly associate mother with pleasure of being fed

● mother stimulates feeling of pleasure on her own, even without food

● means baby feels happier (conditioned response) when the mother is near

● beginning of an attachment

Question 3

describe the explanation of negative reinforcement in learning therapy (2)

Answer 3

● infant: if caregiver provides correct response, crying is reinforced (rewarded) as it has produced a pleasurable outcome

● caregiver: rewarded by infant smiling / being happy

Question 4

describe the explanation of positive reinforcement in learning theory (2)

Answer 4

● infant: thanks to caregiver, unpleasant situation has been removed (e.g. hunger)

● caregiver: by seeing to there infants needs, their crying stops which leads to removal of something unpleasant