Learning Theory: An Evaluation

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Learning Theory: An Evaluation

Advantages

  • A study by Harlow looked at love in infant monkeys. In support of the theory infants will seek comfort as it is positively rewarding

Disadvantages

  • It is criticised as being reductionist as it explains a complex process in simplistic terms
  • The theory rejects biological imperatives in attachment.

Evaluation

The Learning Theory is a simplistic approach to attachment and for this reason it is criticised as being reductionist. Stimulus-response and reinforcement do not offer a comprehensive account of attachment. Furthermore, the whole theory is not supported by research. A study by Harlow produced research that only supported operant conditioning.

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