Learning theory of attachment

classical conditioning

Babies form attachments with mother as they associate mother with food.

Operant conditioning

Babies form attachments with mothers as they see milk as a reward. (positive reinforcement)

Primary drive

Hunger is the primary drive. Babies want to satisfy this hunger relief which is why they form attachments.

Secondary drive

Attachment is the secondary drive. Sears suggested that because caregiver provides food babies form attachments. Attachments then lead up to security and safety.

Limitations

• Harlows research showed monkeys formed attachments to the cloth mother rather than the food mother.

• Schaffer and Emersons research shows only attachments were formed to caregiver that satisfies infants needs.

• Reductionist: oversimplifies attachment. Range of factors that lead to attachments forming.