learning theory of attachment

Question 1

according to the learning approach, attachment is learnt from…

Answer 1

the environment through conditioning

Question 2

classical conditioning summary

Answer 2

infant learns to associate feeding/comfort with primary carer
mother acquires comforting properties by association

Question 3

classical conditioning:
step 1

Answer 3

UCS — UCR
milk — happy baby

Question 4

step 2

Answer 4

NS+UCS — UCR
mother + milk —- happy baby

Question 5

step 3

Answer 5

CS—- CR
mother – happy baby

Question 6

what is operant conditioning

Answer 6

a type of learning that takes place because of actions and consequences. If behaviour produces a pleasant consequence that behaviour is likely to be repeated again (it has been reinforced)
If a behaviour produces an unpleasant consequence it is less likely to be repeated.

Question 7

what is negative reinforcement

Answer 7

something that increases the likelihood of a behaviour being repeated because it involves the removal of unpleasant consequences

Question 8

what is positive reinforcement

Answer 8

something which increases the likelihood of a behaviour being repeated because it involves a reward for the behaviour.

Question 9

what is drive reduction

Answer 9

argues that when we feel discomfort we have a drive to reduce this discomfort

Question 10

example of drive reduction

Answer 10

we have a need for food (eating) which creates a drive (hunger) and an action to reduce this (eating)