Learning theory for addiction

• What does learning theory explain about behavior?

  Behavior is learned through association and experiences.
• What are the three main forms of learning?

  Social learning, classical conditioning, and operant conditioning.
• How does social learning occur?

  It involves observing others, particularly role models, and imitating their behavior.
• What is classical conditioning?

  It is learned through association, where two or more things happen at the same time and become linked.
• How can classical conditioning explain addiction?

  It explains addiction by showing how individuals learn to associate addictive behavior with positive feelings.
• What is operant conditioning?

  It is when behaviors are repeated because they lead to positive consequences, reinforcing the behavior.
• What are positive and negative consequences in operant conditioning?

  Positive consequences reinforce behavior, while negative consequences lead to avoidance of behavior.
• How can addiction reinforce behaviors?

  Addiction can make people feel good, which reinforces the behaviors associated with it.
• What negative effects can addiction lead to?

  Addiction can lead to negative physical symptoms that individuals may avoid by continuing the addiction.
• What are the strengths of learning theory in relation to addiction?

  • Suggests that addictions can be unlearned and treated.
  • Classical conditioning explains relapses due to emotional associations.
• What are the weaknesses of learning theory regarding addiction?

  • Ignores biological factors influencing addiction (reductionism).
  • Conditioning theories don't explain why many try addictions but few become addicted.
• How does operant conditioning consider biological factors in addiction?

  It suggests that the reinforcement of drugs through brain pathways can lead to feelings of reward.
• How does social learning theory explain the difference in addiction rates among individuals?

  It suggests that if a role model is not addicted, there may be no addiction, leading to fewer individuals becoming addicted.
• What is the interaction between factors in addiction according to learning theory?

  • Learning theory considers both social and biological factors.
  • Reinforcement through brain pathways leads to feelings of reward.