Describe the contributions and limitations of behaviorism and social learning theory to the scientific study of human development

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

According to behaviorism, directly observable events—stimuli and responses—are the appropriate focus of study. Traditional behaviorists use classical and operant conditioning to mold children's behavior. The most influential kind of social learning theory emphasizes modeling, also known as imitation or observational learning, as a powerful source of development. The most recent version of the theory places strong emphasis on cognition.
Behaviorism and social learning theory have been helpful in treating a wide range of adjustment problems. Behavior modification consists of procedures that combine conditioning and modeling to eliminate undesirable behaviors and increase desirable responses. It has been used to relieve a wide range of difficulties in children and adults, ranging from poor time management and unwanted habits to serious problems, such as language delays, persistent aggression, and extreme fears.
Nevertheless, many theorists believe that behaviorism and social learning theory offer too narrow a view of important environmental influences, which extend beyond immediate reinforcement, punishment, and modeled behaviors to people's rich physical and social worlds. Behaviorism and social learning theory have also been criticized for underestimating people's contributions to their own development.