John Watson and the Little Albert Experiment

John Watson

American psychologist born in 1878, behaviorism founder.

Observable Behaviors

Focus on actions rather than internal mental processes.

Introspection

Self-examination of one's mental and emotional processes.

Environmental Influence

Belief that behavior is shaped entirely by surroundings.

Little Albert Experiment

Study demonstrating classical conditioning in a child.

Classical Conditioning

Learning process where a neutral stimulus elicits a response.

Fear Conditioning

Emotions like fear can be conditioned through association.

Emotional Detachment

Advocacy for limited emotional expression in parenting.

Independent Adults

Goal of Watson's parenting approach for children.

Behaviorist Techniques

Methods like systematic desensitization used in therapy.

Reinforcement Techniques

Methods to shape student behavior through rewards.

Criticism of Behaviorism

Oversimplification of human behavior, ignoring thoughts and emotions.

Ethical Concerns

Issues raised regarding experiments like Little Albert's.