learning theories

There are two learning theories of attachment: classical conditioning and operant conditioning.

Classical conditioning focuses on food and is sometimes referred to as a ‘cupboard love theory’. This is learning by association as the baby learns to associate the caregiver, usually the mother, with food. When fed the baby feels happy and comfortable, an unconditional response, and learns to associate these feelings with the caregiver – a conditioned response.

Harlow’s experiment with rhesus monkeys can be sued to criticise this theory. In his…