Explainations of attachment: learning theory

Explainations of attachment: learning theory

1. Classical conditioning

   • New conditioned response learned through associating a neutral stimulus (the mother) and unconditioned (food)
   • Baby is having a paired association rather than a bond

2. Operant conditioning

   • The reduction of discomfort created by hunger is rewarded so food becomes primary reinforcer associated with the mother the secondary reinforcer
   • Drive reduction theory
     • When infant is fed the drive is reduced and produces a feeling of pleasure which is rewarding
       • Negative reinforcement

3. Evaluation

   • Animal studies lack external validity because of simplified view of human attachment
     • Not all human behaviour can be explained with conditioning
   • Attachment is not based on food
     • Harlow showed it was contact comfort
   • Learning theory can explain some aspects of attachment eg attention and responsiveness are rewards
     • But not complete explanation
   • Drive reduction theory is not popular
     • Not everything is done to reduce discomfort
   • Based on research with animals
     • May lack validity because they oversimplify human behaviour
   • Alternative explanation
     • Bowlby's theory explains why attachments form rather than just how

4. Social learning theory

   • Children observe their parents affectionate behaviour and imitate this