...Behaviourist approach The behavioural approach is based on the concept of explaining behaviour through observation, and the belief that our environment is what causes us to behave differently. Behaviourists explain behaviour in terms of the stimuli that elicit it and the events that caused the person to learn to respond to the stimulus that way. Behaviourists use two processes to explain how people learn: classical conditioning and operant conditioning. In classical conditioning, people learn to associate two stimuli when they occur together, such that the response originally elicited by one stimulus is transferred to another. The person learns to produce an existing response to a new stimulus. For example, Watson & Rayner conditioned a young boy called Albert, to respond with anxiety to the stimulus of a white rat. They achieved this by pairing the rat with a loud noise that already made Albert anxious. The anxiety response was transferred to the rat because it was presented together with the noise. The response also generalized to other stimuli that resembled the rat, including a rabbit and a fur coat. In operant conditioning, people learn to perform new behaviours through the consequences of the things they do. If a behaviour they produce is followed by a reinforcement then the likelihood of that behaviour being repeated increases in future. A consequence can be reinforcing in two ways: either the person gets something good or they avoid something bad. Conversely...
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...11/21/2012 | Submitted to: Mrs. Maria Hutchinson Submitted by: Roger Polanco Introduction to Counseling and Guidance Research On Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches Similarities and differences In psychology many approaches have been discovered and some are still currently in use. There are two approaches, which I feel have much similarities but also differences. I will be explaining the cognitive and behavioral approach. Cognition literally means, “Knowing”. In other words, psychologists from this approach study cognition, which is A ‘the mental act or process by which knowledge is acquired.’ They focus on the way human’s process information, looking at how we treat information that comes in to the person (stimuli) and how this treatment leads to responses. In other words, they are interested in the variables that mediate between stimulus/input and response/output. The main areas of study in cognitive psychology are: perception, attention, memory and language. The essence of the behavioral approach is the statement that all behavior is learned and that when we are born we are like a blank slate. Experience and interactions with the environment make us what we are. We become what we become as a result of forming stimulus-response units of behavior in reaction to the environment. This perspective has been called environmental determinism because it suggests that the environments in which we exist determine us. The second statement is that all behavior can be explained...
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...The cognitive approach to human and comparative psychology rests on two main assumptions: 1) there are cognitive representations and processes that act on those representations 2) we can discover these representations and processes, albeit indirectly (Willingham, 2007). This approach offers a middle ground between B.F. Skinner’s cut-and-dry input—output relations and C.L. Hull’s hypothetical constructs and intervening variables. In the first case, there is no room for intermediary cognitive processes between stimulus and response, outside the realm of simple associative learning. In the second case, there is lacking an explicit scientific means by which to objectively observe the theoretical cognitive mechanisms in question. However, E. C. Tolman was one of the first psychologists to suggest that intermediary cognitive processes could be deduced through the results of scientifically rigorous experimentation (Zentall, 2002). It is on this very basic proposition, that theoretical cognitive processes can be inferred by observing behavior, which most informs the developmental milestones in the formation of the cognitive perspective as a branch of psychology. Development of Cognitive Psychology The development of the cognitive approach as a mainstream psychological perspective is marked by four major milestones: 1) the shortfalls of the behaviorist perspective of psychology 2) the ability for abstract constructs to account for the aforementioned shortfalls 3) the bridging of abstract...
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...Psychology Theories Psychology is the word that is used to define the science of mind and behavior. The word psychology is derived from the Greek word psyche, which means “breathe, spirit, soul” and the Greek word logia, which means the study of something (Nordqvist, 2009). By derivative definition psychology is the study of every aspect of human function and behavior. The human being is extremely complex, evolutionary individual, and new discoveries regarding human development are discovered often. Because of constant stream of new discoveries regarding human psyche, there are many different perspectives that when combined in an eclectic manner provide a unique insight into what makes us, as human beings, so special. The behaviorist perspective is an approach in psychology that proposes that learning comes from either rewards or punishment in association with specific behaviors (Editorial Board, 2011). Ivan Pavlov was a Russian physiologist began experimenting with dogs in order to better understand what causes certain behaviors. Pavlov would ring a bell to signal the time to eat, over time he realized that whenever the bell was rang, the dogs would salivate in anticipation, even if there was no food given. This experiment awakened psychologist to what was to become known as...
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...Cognitive Psychology Definition Paper PSY 360 Cognitive Psychology Definition The cognitive approach to human and comparative psychology supports two major projections: 1) there are cognitive representations and processes that act on those representations (Willingham, 2007). 2) we can discover these representations and processes, albeit indirectly (Willingham, 2007). This approach proposes a consensus amongst B.F. Skinner’s cut-and-dry input²output relations and C.L. Hull’s hypothetical constructs and intervening variables. In the first case, there is limited access for intermediary cognitive processes among stimulus and response, independent from the domain of effortless associative learning. In the second case, there is lacking a definite scientific means by which to impartially observe the theoretical cognitive mechanisms at hand. Nonetheless, E. C. Tolman was one of the first psychologists to insinuate that intermediary cognitive processes could be determined through the results of scientifically meticulous experimentation. It is on this extremely complex proposal, that theoretical cognitive processes can be inferred by observing behavior, which most informs the developmental milestones in the formation of the cognitive perspective as a branch of psychology. Cognitive Psychology relates to developments, both past and present, in the investigation of the memory process, verbal communication, discernment, the ability to...
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...philosophical studies, so the approaches used were similar to those adopted by the philosophers at the time. The main approach used the method of introspection, which tried to understand the mind through the analysis of an individual’s thoughts, feelings and experiences (Hayes, 2008). However, this approach was later criticised for its subjectiveness since one person’s introspection can differ from another’s (Gross, 2003) and that although introspection can reveal an individual’s private experiences it cannot be objectively measured or observed by others (Smith et al, 1998). The concept of behaviourism as a formal school of psychology was introduced by the American psychologist, JB Watson in 1919 (Carlson et al, (2000). Following a series of experiments he conducted on animals which included cats, dogs, monkeys and rats, he came to the conclusion that psychology should not be concerned with the mind or the consciousness. He suggested that psychologists should instead focus on the external observations on the behaviour of animals or humans in order to understand how the environment influences the subject’s behaviour (Smith et al, 1998). Watson, along with fellow researchers such as Pavlov and Skinner, began to develop a framework which emphasised observable processes such as environmental stimuli and behavioural responses (Gross, 2003). This approach became known as Behaviourism and it soon began to take over the work of the early introspectionist psychologists by arguing...
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...negative feedback to condition desired behaviors. Punishment is sometimes used in eliminating or reducing incorrect actions, followed by clarifying desired actions. Educational effects of behaviorism are key in developing basic skills and foundations of understanding in all subject areas and in classroom management. According to behaviorism, knowing is giving the correct response when exposed to a particular stimulus. The behaviorist is not concerned with how or why knowledge is obtained, but rather if the correct response is given. Yu Ching Chen’s web site on behaviorism states that, “Learning is defined as nothing more than the acquisition of new behavior”. In terms of the concept of learning, the process tends to be passive with regard to the behaviorist theory. The learner uses low level processing skills to understand material and the material is often isolated from real-world contexts or situations. Little responsibility is placed on the learner concerning his/her own education. Typical classroom instruction consistent with the behaviorist theory includes; classroom management, rote memorization, and drill and practice. Several examples of behaviorism used in classroom management were highlighted in the reading section titled, “Behavioral Views of Learning” by A. Woolfolk. One example, used by two of our own group members, is using a token system to reinforce positive academic performance and student behavior. A classroom application of using drill and...
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...E-Leader Manila 2012 A Comparison of Two Theories of Learning -Behaviorism and Constructivism as applied to Face-to-Face and Online Learning Dr. Mary Anne Weegar Dr. Dina Pacis National University San Diego, CA, USA Abstract The two theories of learning discussed are Behaviorism and Constructivism. Skinner and Watson, the two major developers of the behaviorist school of thought sought to prove that behavior could be predicted and controlled (Skinner, 1974). They studied how learning is affected by changes in the environment. The constructivists viewed learning as a search for meaning. Piaget and Vygotsky described elements that helped predict what children understand at different stages (Rummel, 2008). Details of both theories illuminate the differences and connections between the behavioral and constructivist theories in relationship to how children learn and how their behavior is affected. How curriculum and instruction work with these theories to promote learning and how educators view learning with respect to both theories are also reviewed. Introduction Many students enrolled in institutions of higher education in the United States have had experience with both face-to-face and online classes. Educational researchers have begun to examine the technological characteristics of online classes which contribute to making online classes equivalent to face-to-face classes in relationship to their pedagogical effectiveness. The growth of online learning has changed the traditional...
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...continue that for two consecutive years. Model classroom teachers are always encouraging the students and staff to strive to do better than they were the day before. The particular educators that are being spoken about utilize their time wisely and they think of others before they stop and think about themselves. Using the path- goal theory successfully a leader has to be directive, supportive, participative, and achievement oriented and use more than one style at once (Razik & Swanson, 2009). ACCEL is a school that is based on dealing with students with high behavior the behavior model would be most appropriate when describing the school in general. The students that have behavior issues are easily redirected following the behaviorist approach. This approach is able to track their behavior by their actions or what they say. Using this style will show when the student is at the baseline or when the...
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...Foundations of Psychology When people hear the word psychology they may not always perceive it as a science. The science of psychology is based on the mental processes and behavior of human beings, and in some cases, animals. The foundations of psychology rely heavily upon four individual schools of thought. This includes the following perspectives: psychodynamic, behaviorist, cognitive, and evolutionary (Kowalski & Westen, 2009). Although the biopsychological approach is not considered as one of the four major schools of thought within psychology, it plays an important role in the foundations of psychology. These perspectives focus on a unique viewpoint or approach toward the field of psychology and each brings new ideas and theories to the table. The Psychodynamic Perspective It can be said that Sigmund Freud was the father of the psychodynamic perspective of psychology. Freud developed this perspective based upon the idea that the unconscious self is responsible for certain “underlying wishes, fears, and patterns of thought from an individual’s conscious, verbalized thought, and behavior” (Kowalski & Westen, 2009, p. 13). Essentially, the psychodynamic perspective suggests that people’s actions and thoughts are influenced by unconscious factors that they may not be aware of. The goal of psychodynamic psychologists was to discover how these unconscious factors influence the behavior and mental processes of human beings. Due to the nature of this perspective psychologists...
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...about behavior thought, and feelings, came from using logic and argumentation. As the late ninetieth century came along, a new alternative approach in trying to understand the mind and behavior emerged. This new approach was to study the mind and behavior scientifically. William Wundt, “who founded the first psychological laboratory in Germany, and was also described as the father of psychology, use scientific methods to uncover the elementary units of human consciousness that combine to form more complex ideas” (Kowalski & Westen, 2009). The method Wundt and his students used was called introspection, where observers reported verbally what goes on in their minds when presented with a task to do. After recording his observers responses, Wundt conclusion was that “the basic elements of consciousness are sensations and feelings” (Kowalski & Westen, 2009), and can become a more complex idea if a person focuses attention, and mentally manipulates them. Wundt considered experimentation essential for studying the basic elements of the mind, while other methods, such as, the study of myths and religion requires higher mental process. However it was the next generation, (Wundt’s student) who took a different view of psychology. The student did this by staying away from philosophical thinking and developed a fully scientific approach to psychology. This lead to the beginning of the first two major schools of thought - structuralism and functionalism, with more to follow...
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...Leadership Approach Paper Zahíra Martínez LDR/531 May 28, 2012 Ben MC Collum Leadership Approach Paper During the reading of the paper the reader will be learning about the Behavioral Theory found as a result of study about leadership it has produced a multitude of perspectives and theories. The Behavioral Theory in one of few theories that can be found on the studies of leadership. Each theory has its pro and cons where not everyone can concord with the same opinion to each theory. The theory centers on what leaders actually do, rather than on their personal characteristics. The Ohio State leadership studies of the 1940s are the most well-known and influential research inquiry in this area (Bensimon et al., 1989; Hoy & Miskel, 1996; Bass, 1990). The leader behavior description questionnaire (LBDQ) established measures two basic dimensions of leadership: initiating structure (task oriented) and consideration (relationship oriented) (Hoy & Miskel). Since early studies using the LBDQ indicated that the two dimensions are separate and distinct, dividing each dimension into high or low sections can create four quadrants or leadership styles. According to the LBDQ, administrators are most effective when they score high in consideration and initiating structure. Another application of this perspective is the managerial grid developed by Blake and Mouton (1964). It measures a person's leadership style by "detecting the degree of concern for production (task oriented)...
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...The definition of behavioral learning is as follows, the relatively permanent change in behavior brought forth as a result of experience or relocation. My research paper is based on my understanding of the behaviorist theory and my similarities to its educational reasoning. The Behaviorist theory has been well known through out the education and phycology fields many decades and has contributed a great deal to the way we as Americans have learned to instruct or teach or students. John B. Watson is credited as the originator of behaviorism but it can be debated B. F. Skinner made a greater contribution to behaviorist. He took the study of behavior and made it a science. As I conducted my data collection for this research paper I read a few articles, which believed behaviorism has failed or will fail to truly be an effect learning theory. There reasoning behind this argument is for the most part wrapped around Skinner’s failure to provide validity for behaviorism and the intellectually development of language. While the opposition makes valid points, it is my similarities that encouraged me to elaborate further on this learning theory. The physical development as it relates to behaviorist theory is interwoven in the fabrics of positive reinforcement and positive punishments. The rewards base system may provide a stimulus for students and encourages cooperation on a achievement basic. Children develop physically learning from their parents or guardians most often than not....
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...focusing on observable behaviors, which behaviorists uses key concepts of conditioning, punishment, and reinforcement. John B. Watson and B. F. Skinner’s approach on behaviorism exhibited behavioral psychology as the model of formal disciplinary. On the other hand, Edward C. Tolman’s approach on behavioral learning subsidized to behavioral psychology. Although Watson, Skinner, and Tolman’s approaches were different in describing and explaining their theoretical approach, Watson, Skinner, and Tolman contributed their own theories proven to impact a part of psychology in influencing the advancement of modern day psychology in understanding behavior and human learning. Perspectives John B. Watson (1878-1958) was born in a small city (Travelers Rest) in Greenville County of South Carolina to Emma Watson and Pickens Butler. Watson was an American psychologist who founded the psychological school of behaviorism and the first to advocate a behavioral approach. Watson believed that one could benefit a full understanding of behavior by learning and modifying the environment in which people function and control as well as he thought that it was feasible and probable to produce any desired type of behavior by controlling a person’s environment (Feldman, 2010). According to Watson, psychology should be the science of observable behavior in which he treated mental events outside the province of a scientific psychology. Watson’s launching of the behaviorist movement in the United States in 1913...
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...Neo Freudian’s Psychoanalytic Theory VS. B.F Skinner’s Behaviorist Approach Cion Castille Psy211 Asharaf Esmail March 12, 2013 How Personality traits are passed down or learned has always been a questionable and a confusing topic when it comes to actually proving your reasons. There seems to be many different theorists that feel that personality comes from different ways. Some even support their theories in such a logical manner that it leaves on the fence. Exploring different theorist showed me many different interpretations of the effecting factors that determine personality traits. The Important pioneer Sigmund Freudian (Freud) and his, Psychoanalytic theory. Learning Theorist B.F. Skinner (Skinner) and his, Behaviorist Approach which was among my interest and very plausible was. In both of these cases the Theorist used great examples from everyday life to support their theorist and beliefs. Sigmund Freudian introduced his Psychoanalytic Theory in the early 1900s. In this theory he stated that conscious experiences are not the only or for that fact the greatest influence on our personality traits. Freud argued that the unconscious experiences that a person goes through also plays a big part if not most of developing personality traits. With this belief Freud focused all of his studies in this matter on the unconscious factors in a person’s life such as; memories, knowledge, beliefs, feelings, drive, and built in instincts. Freud stated that the unconscious functions...
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