P2: Approaches - Behaviourist

Question 1

definition of behaviourist approach

Answer 1

1. Behaviour = Observable
   Focuses only on observable behaviour — not thoughts or emotions.
2. “Tabula Rasa” = Blank Slate
   We are born as blank slates.

All behaviour is learned from the environment, not inherited.

3. Learning Theory
   Often called the learning theory because it explains behaviour through learning.
4. Conditioning = Key Mechanism
   All behaviour is learned through conditioning.
5. Two Types of Conditioning
   Classical Conditioning (Pavlov)
   → Learning through association.
   → Stimulus + Response.
   → E.g. Dog hears bell (stimulus) → expects food (response).

Operant Conditioning (Skinner)
→ Learning through consequences.
→ Reinforcement increases behaviour.
→ Punishment decreases behaviour.