Learning Theory

Learning or behavioral theories state that people learn or acquire their personality/behaviors. These behavioral traits can be strengthened by positive reinforcement. The theory also proposes that if behavior can be learning, maladaptive behavior can also be unlearned.

Social learning theory states that people learn their behaviors from their observations of others in society. “Monkey see, monkey do.”

Classical conditioning involves creating a behavioral response to a certain stimulus. Social workers use this for systematic desensitization when a client is overly fearful or anxious  with a specific situation, place, or thing. The desensitization produces a new feeling when faced with the same stimulus such as relaxation (incompatible response to anxiety or fear).

Modeling – Children learn behavior by observing those in authority – mainly their parents and then teachers. As people grow older, they still model those in authority and more prestigious positions than themselves.

Operant Conditioning - the belief (and most widely used behavioral modification) that behaviors can be eliminated and controlled though the consequences implemented for behaviors

Reinforcements

                Positive reinforcement – encourages particular behavior (like receiving praise for an activity or money/allowance for chores)

                Negative reinforcement – taking away the negative event or consequence (like an annoying sound stopping when behavior is done – like putting on seat belt to stop the beeping)

Punishment – addition of an aversive event or the removal of a positive reinforcer (taking away something the child or client enjoys – like dessert) which serves to decrease the frequency of a particular behavior

Extinction – reinforcement for a behavior stops in order to decrease or erase that behavior

Zastrow, C.H. & Kirst-Ashman, K.K. (2004). Understanding Human Behavior. Thomson Learning, Inc., Belmont, CA. p. 140-158