Question

The three learning theories: Classical, Operant, and Social Cognitive Theories are only useful to a psychologist doing research.

Explain why you agree or disagree. Make sure to give examples of all three theories to support your answer.

Answer 1

Yes, I agree that these are effective ways for a psychologist to do research.

Classical Conditioning

In classical condoning, people learn when there is an association between a neutral stimulus that was already present before and a natural stimulus. This can be explained through an example. If we ring a bell before giving food to a dog and continue to do this for a while, we will notice that the dog starts salivating as soon as the bell is rang thinking that its time for food.

Operant Conditioning

Learning takes place when there is an association. Here, the associations are between behaviour and the results of that behaviour. If the result of that behaviour is according to ones wish, there is more chances of that behaviour to repeat again. For example: If a mother rewards her son after completing his homework on time, he will try to finish it on time every day for the sake of the reward.

Observation

This learning is all about observation. The maximum amount of learning takes place when we observe a certain behaviour. For example: Small children observe what's going on around them and they learn and imitate those behaviour.