Which of the following theories of learning comes under the Associationist…
2019
Which of the following theories of learning comes under the Associationist (Stimulus-Response (S-R) theories?
Answer: D. Skinner’s Operant Conditioning Theory — Associationist (S-R) theories: explain learning as the formation of connections between a stimulus (S) and a response (R). B.F. Skinner’s Operant Conditioning…
- A.
Tolman’s Sign or Cognitive Theory
- B.
Gestalt Theory
- C.
Kurt Lewin’s Field Theory
- D.
Skinner’s Operant Conditioning Theory
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Correct answer: D
Associationist (S-R) theories: explain learning as the formation of connections between a stimulus (S) and a response (R). B.F. Skinner’s Operant Conditioning Theory is a principal example: learning occurs when a behaviour is followed by reinforcement or punishment, which strengthens or weakens the S‑R connection.
Practical implication: Reinforcement increases the likelihood of a response; punishment or lack of reinforcement decreases it.
Why the other listed theories are not associationist S‑R theories: Tolman’s cognitive theory emphasizes internal cognitive maps and purposive behaviour, not simple S‑R bonds.