Lesson 2.2 Behaviorism and Learning Theories

Classical Conditioning

Introduced by Ivan Pavlov, this theory suggests that behaviors are learned through associations between stimuli.

• For example, Pavlov’s dogs learned to salivate at the sound of a bell because it had been associated with the presentation of food. (Bell = Food = Reaction of salivation)

Operant Conditioning

Developed by B.F. Skinner this theory emphasizes how behaviors are influenced by rewards (reinforcements) or punishments.

• For instance, a behavior followed by a positive outcome (reinforcement) is more likely to be repeated, while a behavior followed by a negative outcome (punishment) is less likely to be repeated

Learning Theories

Broader and encompasses various approaches to understanding how learning occurs.

Behavioral Learning Theories

As described, these theories focus on observable behaviors and the ways they are influenced by the environment.

Cognitive Learning Theories

These emphasize mental processes such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving.

• Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, for example, suggests that learning occurs through the stages of cognitive growth.

Social Learning Theory

Proposed by Albert Bandura, this theory asserts that people learn behaviors through observation, imitation, and modeling.

Bobo Doll

Bandura’s famous experiment that demonstrated that children could learn aggressive behaviors by observing others.

Constructivist Learning Theories

These suggest that learners construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflecting on those experiences.

• Lev Vygotsky’s social development theory emphasizes the role of social interaction and cultural context in learning.

Behavior modification

Therapeutic approach that seeks to change or improve specific behaviors through various techniques and principles derived from behaviorist theories.

• The goal is to replace undesirable behaviors with more desirable ones using systematic interventions.

Operant Conditioning

A learning process where behaviors are influenced by rewards (reinforcements) or punishments.

Positive Reinforcement

Adding a pleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior (e.g., giving a child praise for completing homework).

Negative Reinforcement

Removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase a behavior (e.g., turning off a loud noise when a correct action is performed)

Punishment

Applying an unpleasant consequence to decrease the likelihood of a behavior. (e.g., taking away a privilege for misbehavior)

Classical Conditioning

A learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an involuntary response through pairing with another stimulus.

• Means you can train the brain to connect two things so that one automatically triggers a reaction, even if it didn’t before.

• Ex: A student hears the school bell ring (neutral stimulus) every time class ends (natural relief). Eventually, just hearing the bell makes the student feel relieved even before the teacher dismisses them.

Conditioned Response

A learned response to a previously neutral stimulus (e.g., feeling anxious when hearing a specific tone associated with stressful events)

Behavioral Contracts

Written agreements between individuals and therapists (or between individuals) outlining specific behaviors to be changed, along with rewards or consequences.

Clear Goals

Specific, measurable, and attainable behavior goals (e.g., “I will exercise for 30 minutes every day”)

Mutual Agreement

Both parties agree on the terms and understand the rewards or consequences.

Modeling

Demonstrating desired behaviors to encourage others to imitate them.

Role Modeling

A therapist or peer demonstrating positive behaviors that the individual is encouraged to adopt

Self-Monitoring

The process where individuals track their own behaviors and progress toward their goals.

Behavior Logs

Keeping a record of occurrences of a behavior (e.g., tracking food intake for weight management)

Reducing Smoking

• Technique: Positive reinforcement

• Example: A person might receive a reward for each day they go without smoking, such as a small treat or a voucher.

Improving Study Habits

• Technique: Behavioral contracts

• Example: A student and their parents might agree on a contract where the student earns extra screen time for completing study sessions as planned.

Managing Anxiety

• Technique: Classical conditioning and exposure therapy

• Example: Gradually exposing someone to a feared situation in a controlled way to reduce their anxiety response over time.

Encouraging Healthy Eating

• Technique: Self-monitoring

• Example: An individual keeps a food diary to track their eating habits and identify patterns that lead to unhealthy choices.

Behavior Modification

Relies on systematic, evidence-based methods to create measurable changes in behavior, aiming to improve individuals’ functioning and quality of life by addressing specific behavior patterns