Evaluating the Behaviourist Approach in Psychology

Introduction

• Discussion on evaluating the behaviourist approach in psychology.
• Focus on strengths, limitations, counter-arguments, comparisons, and debates.
• References to classical and operant conditioning by Ivan Pavlov and B.F. Skinner in previous videos.

Headings for Evaluation

1. Research Methods
2. Supporting Evidence
3. Application
4. Debates

Research Methods

• Scientific Methods:
  • Behaviourists are praised for using scientific methods.
  • Moved away from subjective introspection (Wilhelm Vundt) to objective behavior measurement.
  • Example: Skinner's controlled lab settings (Skinner Box) to study reinforcement and punishment.
  • Establishes cause and effect, enhancing psychology's scientific credibility.
• Criticism of Animal Studies:
  • Work by Skinner and Pavlov based on animals, limited generalizability to humans.
  • Human behavior differs (e.g., emotion, consciousness, social behavior).
  • Other approaches (Social Learning Theory, Cognitive approach) stress mental processes and do not rely on animal behavior.

Supporting Evidence

• Human Studies:
  • Watson and Rayner's 1920 study on classical conditioning with "Little Albert."
  • Demonstrated classical conditioning from neutral stimulus (white rat) to conditioned fear response.

Application

• Real-World Application:
  • Classical conditioning used in phobia treatment through systematic desensitization.
  • Operant conditioning applied in "token economies" in schools and prisons.
  • Encourages positive behavior through rewards, e.g., stickers in schools, tokens in prisons.
  • Strengthens desired behaviors and improves behavior management.

Debates

• Environmental Determinism:
  • Behaviourism criticized for being deterministic – behavior determined by external forces (conditioning).
  • B.F. Skinner: Free will as an illusion.
  • Criticism: Removes personal responsibility for actions.
  • Comparison with Humanistic Approach:
    • Humanistic psychology argues for free will and personal responsibility (e.g., Carl Rogers' therapy).
  • Behaviourism considered limited due to deterministic view.

Conclusion

• Suggested essay structure: Use varied evaluation points with supporting evidence, counter-arguments, and debates.
• Further resources available for other psychological approaches.