Learning Theory

Learning Theory

1. Theory

   • behaviour learnt is NOT innate
   • Children born like blank slates
     • 'Tabula rasa'
   • Everything they become is because of experience
   • Behaviourists support the idea of the theory
   • Operant Conditioning
   • Classical Conditioning

2. Classical Conditioning

   • learn through association
   • Pavlov's dogs
     • Do NOT talk about this in exam
   • LINK C.C to attachment
   • 1. FOOD=PLEASURE
     • UCS = UCR
   • 2. PERSON+FOOD=PLEASURE
     • CS=UCR
   • 3. PERSON-FOOD+ PLEASURE
     • CS=CR

3. Operant Conditioning

   • Dollard AND Miller 1950
   • Hungry infants feels discomfort
   • Creates drive to reduce discomfort
   • Infant fed reduces discomfort
   • Food = Primary Reinforcer (reinforces behaviour to avoid discomfort)
   • Caregiver = Secondary Reinforcer (source of reward become their right)