How would a behaviourist explain the learning process?

A behaviourist would describe the learning process to be due to either classical conditioning, operant conditioning or social learning theory. Classical conditioning refers to learning by association. For example, an experiment was conducted by Pavlov in which they built up an association between a dog salivating in response to food, and the sound of a bell. The dog learned to associate the sound of a bell with the possibility of eating, and thus salivated. Operant conditioning refers to learning by consequence and reinforcement. For example, if you're continuously rewarded for a behaviour you are likely to continue to do the behaviour, and if you're punished for the behaviour then you are likely to stop the behaviour. Social learning theory refers to learning by imitation. Individuals observe a behaviour being carried out, and the response to said behaviour. If the response is positive the individual is more likely to copy the behaviour.

RM
Answered by Rebecca M. Psychology tutor

1480 Views

See similar Psychology GCSE tutors

Related Psychology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the multi-store model of memory


Briefly outline two of the monocular depth cues shown in Figure 1. Explain how each cue you have identified helps us to perceive the distance of objects in this image. (4 marks).


Describe the Multi-Store Model of Memory (Atkinson & Shiffrin, 1968)


Using the amygdala as a biological explanation of aggression, explain why Tim is fighting with his classmates


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences