Basic principles of learning theory

n Our responses and behaviors are learned

n We learn to maximize pleasure, avoid pain

n born with certain instinctual responses

n learn through

n association (classical conditioning)

n consequences (operant/instrumental conditioning)

Behavioral theory emphasizes:

n Observable behavior

n testable hypotheses, experimentation

n relevance of animal models

n situational variables

n the function of behaviors

n ways of altering behavior patterns

Classical conditioning

n We learn to respond to previously neutral stimuli (CS) based on their association with stimuli that already elicit responses (UCS)

n these associations

n generalize

n contribute to further learning

n extinguish (or decrease at least)

n can be context specific

Operant conditioning

n The frequency of any given behavior is determined by previous consequences for this behavior

n reinforcement - increases freq. of beh.

n punishment - decreases freq. of beh.

n positive - presenting something

n negative - removing something

n Conditioning depends on individual and situational factors

n individual differences in reinforcement value

n behaviors may predict reward only in certain situations

n multiple conditioning influences

n variable reinforcement schedule evokes most robust behavioral patterns

n natural contingencies more effective than artificial contingencies

Integration of behavioral/ psychoanalytic theory

Dollard & Miller

n proposed psychosexual stages coincide with important learning situations

n feeding

n cleanliness

n sex

n anger expression

Social learning theories

n Julian Rotter

n reinforcement value

n expectancy

n generalized expectancy/locus of control

n Albert Bandura

n reciprocal determinism

n self-regulation

n observational/vicarious learning

Behavior Therapy

n Systematic desensitization

n Exposure therapy

n Token economies

n Parent training

n Functional analysis

Self-efficacy

n Outcome expectation

n Efficacy expectation

n Enactive master experiences

n Vicarious experiences

n Verbal persuasion

n Physiological and affective states

n Guided mastery

Behavioral Assessment

n Direct observation

n Self-Monitoring

n Observation by others

Strengths/Weaknesses

n Strengths

n Verifiability

n Application

n Weaknesses

n Inattention to internal variables

n Reliance on animal models

n Book says ignores genetics