Learning theory of attachment

Who initially applied learning theory to attachments?

Dollard and Miller

Explain how the learning theory in attachment is known as the "cupboard love" theory

It emphasises the importance of food in attachments

Outline the 3 main aspects of classical conditioning when explaining attachments

Food = unconditioned stimulus
Pleasure = unconditioned response
Mother = neutral stimulus

What does the mother become in attachment according to the learning theory?

The mother becomes the conditioned stimulus and pleasure becomes a conditioned response

What concept in operant conditioning can be used to explain attachments?

Reinforcement - positive and negative

How does positive reinforcement work in attachments developing between infant and care giver?

When the infant cries the caregiver will respond to the crying - comfort or food - the child will direct their crying at caregiver to receive the same rewards

How does negative reinforcement work in attachments developing between infant and care giver?

The caregiver comforts infant to avoid the crying of the infant

What behaviourist theory can be used to explain the motivation behind attachments developing

Drive reduction theory

What animal research disproves/does not support the learning theory of attachment?

Harlows Monkey's - comfort is as important as food

State 1 limitation of the learning theory of attachments

Learning theory ignores other factors associated with forming attachments