Overview
This lecture discusses the nature versus nurture debate in psychology, focusing on John Watson's theory of behaviorism and his famous "Little Albert" experiment.
Nature vs. Nurture Debate
- Some scientists argue that genetics (biology) determine human behavior (nature).
- Others, like John Watson, argue that environment and experience shape behavior (nurture).
John Watson and Behaviorism
- John Watson opposed the idea that genetics strictly determine behavior.
- Watson believed humans are born as a "blank slate" (tabula rasa) and that most behaviors are learned.
- He conducted experiments to show the environment’s influence over innate traits.
The Little Albert Experiment
- Watson studied the reactions of infants, focusing on learning and fear.
- In the "Little Albert" experiment, an infant was initially unafraid of white rats.
- Watson paired the rat with a loud, frightening noise, causing the infant to become scared.
- After repeated pairings, the infant began to fear the rat and other furry objects, even without the noise.
- The experiment aimed to prove that fears are learned, not inherited.
Impact and Application of Behaviorism
- Watson named his approach "behaviorism," emphasizing observable and learned behaviors.
- He advocated that parents can shape their children’s behaviors by controlling their environment.
- He suggested thinking of the home as a scientific laboratory for developing behavior.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Behaviorism — a psychological theory stating behavior is learned from the environment, not inherited.
- Tabula rasa — Latin for "blank slate," suggesting individuals are born without built-in mental content.
- Little Albert experiment — Watson’s study demonstrating that emotional responses such as fear can be conditioned.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the concept of classical conditioning and its role in learned behavior.
- Consider examples of behaviors in your own life that may have been learned rather than inherited.