The learning theory

• Learning theory of attachment


  Attachments are driven by the baby's desire for food
• Formation of attachments


  1. Classical conditioning

  2. Caregiver becomes a conditioned stimulus

  3. Baby acquires a happy conditioned response to caregiver
• Strengthening of attachment


  1. Operant conditioning

  2. Positive reinforcement when baby cries due to hunger

  3. Negative reinforcement for caregiver responding to baby
• Attachment


  Emotional bond between baby and caregiver