Explanations of Attachment- Learning Theory

Explanations of Attachment- Learning Theory

1. Description

   • All behaviours are learned rather than inherited
   • Classical conditioning- new conditioned response learned through association between a neutral stimulus (mother) and an unconditioned stimulus (food)
   • Operant conditioning- the reduction of discomfort created by hunger is rewarding so food becomes a primary reinforcer, associated with mother who become secondary reinforcer
   • Social learning- children model parents' attachment behaviour

2. Evaluation

   • Animal studies- lack external validity because it is a simplified view of human attachment
   • Attachment is not based on food- Harlow showed it was contact comfort; supported by Schaffer and Emerson
   • Learning theory can explain some aspects of attachment- attention and responsiveness are rewards

3. Further evaluation

   • Drive reduction- reducing discomfort does not explain secondary reinforcers
   • Alternative explanation- Bowlby's theory