Learning Theory In Attachment (AO1 & AO3)

LEARNING THEORY OF ATTACHMENT

AO1: Classical Conditioning = behaviour shaped by associations

UCS, UCR, NS, CS, CR

• Baby forms association with mother (NS) + being fed (UCS) + innate feeling of pleasure (UCR).
• Eventually, mother = CS for baby's feeling of pleasure = CR
• = Beginning of attachment

AO1: Operant Conditioning = behaviour shaped through reinforcements/punishments

Role of operant conditioning: Negative - avoid /Positive - follow reinforcement

• Mother rewards infant with food (primary reinforcemer); removes discomfort
• food never comes without mother ∴ becomes secondary reinforcer
• even without food mother's presence = reduce discomfort
• Baby ∴ repeat…