Behaviourism

• Classical Conditioning (Pavlov)


  learning occurs through the pairing of a neutral stimulus and an unconditioned response that produces an automatic response.
• Operant Conditioning (Skinner)


  assumes that behaviour is based on learning through consequence.
• 3 Consequences (OC)


  1) Positive Reinforcement - behaviour is MORE LIKELY to occur due to positive consequences

  2) Negative Reinforcement - behaviour is MORE LIKELY to occur due to negative consequences

  3) Punishment - behaviour is LESS LIKELY to occur because of the negative consequences
• variable-ratio schedule


  In operant conditioning, a reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response after an unpredictable number of responses
• BEA: Scientific Methods (Strength)

  Focuses on observable behaviour within controlled settings. This means it was an influential approach in the development of psychology as a science.
• BEA: Real-life Applications (Strength)


  Principles of conditioning have been applied to real-world behaviours. This means the approach has led to therapies to treat disorders.
• BEA: Use of Animal Research (Weakness)


  Lack of validity due to differences in physiology/brain structure. This means findings may not generalise to humans as thought processes are underestimated
• BEA: Lack of Biology (Weakness)


  Emphasis is on environmental factors affecting behaviour. This means it is not a complete approach
• BEA: Deterministic Approach (Weakness)


  Emphasis on environmental factors affecting behaviour. This means the approach views free will as an 'illusion'. Suggests no conscious control over behaviour.
• Learning Approach: Key Assumptions


  -Behaviour is learnt from experience and is not inherited

  -It is valid to study animals as the same principles apply to humans and non-human animals

  -Only observable behaviour should be studied