Discuss the differences between the learning theory perspective and the humanistic perspective of personality

Question

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Answer 1

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The learning theory perspective includes behaviorists such as Skinner and Watson as well as social cognitive theorists such as Bandura. Behaviorists focus on observable behavior and the situational factors (such as consequences of actions) which determine behavior. Social cognitive theorists emphasize observational learning, that is, learning behaviors from modeling those of others, and personal variables, such as expectancies and emotions, as regulators of behavior. The humanistic perspective reflects the work of Maslow and Rogers, among others. While behaviorism looks at observable behavior, humanistic theory looks to the internal inborn drive that motivates people to develop to their fullest potential. Maslow believed that people progress through levels of needs toward becoming self-actualized. Basic needs, such as the need for food and shelter, must be satisfied before the individual can progress towards satisfying higher needs such as the need for esteem and love. Unconditional positive regard from others helps people grow and realize their fullest potential. Whereas behaviorists do not focus on thoughts and feelings (a stated weakness of the theory), humanistic theorists focus greatly on personal experience (a strength and a weakness of the theory).