Learning theory

• What is the learning theory?

  A theory which states that infants attach to the caregiver who provides them food
• What is classical conditioning?

  Learning to associate two stimuli together so we respond to one in the same way we do to the other
• What is operant conditioning?

  Learning through the consequences of behaviour
• What is positive reinforcement?

  When an individual exercises positive behaviour and is rewarded, the behaviour is more likely to be repeated again
• What is punishment?

  When an individual exercises undesirable behaviour and is given a consequence, it is likely to be less repeated
• What is a primary drive?

  An innate biological need
• What did Sears et al say about attachment as a secondary drive?

  Attachment is learned through association between the caregiver and the satisfaction of the primary drive
• What animal study of attachment challenges the learning theory?

  Lorenz's geese & Harlow's monkeys
• What human study of attachment challenges the learning theory?

  Schaffer and Emerson - babies are most likely to attach to their mother regardless of who feeds them
• How can elements of conditioning be involved in attachment (Strength)

  A baby may associate comfort with one specific individual and this can influence their choice on a primary attachment figure