Learning theory: classical and operant conditioning

Dollard and Miller (1950) proposed that attachment can be explained through learning theory. This is known as 'cupboard love' theory because the baby ends up loving the person that feeds them

Classical conditioning as an explanation of attachment:

• At first, the caregiver is a neutral stimulus - the caregiver does not produce an immediate response
• Food serves as an unconditioned stimulus - this means the baby is automatically pleased by food
• When the baby has food, it feels happiness and comfort - this is an unconditioned response
• The same caregiver provides the food over time - this person becomes the conditioned stimulus and the baby starts…