A03 Explanations for attachment: Learning Theory

• A newer Learning Theory explanation

  Hay and Vespo found parents teach children to love them via modelling attachment such as hugging them or family members. Children also rewarded with approval when they display attachment behaviour of their own
• Some element of conditioning could still be involved


  Learning Theory is not a good explanation but some aspects of human development are affected by conditioning. Feeding theory is a problem but there is some credibility with the association between primary caregiver and provision of comfort which is the part that builds attachment
• Studies show best quality of attachment are with sensitive carers that pick up instant signals and respond appropriately. If cupboard love is the explanation then all these complex interactions have no purpose
• Learning Theory ignores other factors associated with forming attachments

  Research into early infant-caregiver interactions suggests the quality of attachment is associated with factors like developing reciprocity and good levels of interactional synchrony
• Problems with Learning Theory

  Problem with learning theory as this shows feeding is not a key element to attachment; there is no unconditioned response or primary drive involved
• Counter-evidence from human research

  Research with humans show feeding is not an important factor in humans. Schaffer and Emerson's study showed babies developed primary attachment to mother even though others did most of the feeding
• Learning theorists

  Learning theorists did believe non-human animals and humans are similar
• Counter-evidence from animal research

  Range of animal studies show young animals do not necessarily attach (imprint) to those who feed them. Harlow and Lorenz's research show that animals do not create an attachment bond with their parent because of feeding which can also apply to humans.