Theories of Learning - Assignment Example

Skinner’s Behavioral Reinforcement Theory

B.F. Skinner proposed many theories of learning. The most well-known is Operant Conditioning, developed in 1938. He believed that the key to understanding human behavior is to first unravel the reasons behind the same and the consequences of that behavior. He introduced the term “reinforcement” as a core element of his theory and a tool to modify or encourage the kind of behavior that causes the desired response. The presence of positive reinforcement increases the chances of a certain behavior being repeated, whereas its absence results in the weakening and extinction of undesired behavior. If the teacher gives a chocolate to the child every time he completes his homework, it will act as a positive reinforcement and the child will be encouraged to do his homework daily. Similarly, the removal of unpleasant experiences in response to behavior can also serve as a source of negative reinforcement. For instance, if a job seeker misses his interview on account of being late, he will try to be punctual next time. Punishment, on the other hand, is used to reduce or eliminate undesired behavior by applying an unpleasant stimulus. For example, if road rash is penalized by imposing a fine on the driver, the latter will be more cautious while driving to avoid being penalized the next time. We can find numerous instances from our own lives where either positive/negative reinforcements or punishments have brought about considerable changes in our behavior.

Issue 2

Impact of prenatal exposure to Teratogens on Child’s Development

The scientific term ‘teratogen’ is used to define a range of environmental factors that can have an adverse impact on the development of a child at the fetal stage. These are basic elements of the external environment that either impede or harm the normal growth of a child. These can originate from a variety of sources and can be in the form of pollutants, medications, illness, disease, or injury. Exposure to teratogens can influence the vital processes of physical, intellectual, socio-emotional, and language development in infants and may result in birth defects, cognitive delays, decreased birth weight, growth impairment, behavioral and emotional problems, and, in extreme cases, even death. Apart from causing immense harm to the physical and mental health of the child, teratogens may also lead to certain abnormal behavioral patterns such as deferred motor development, sharp crying voices, reduced attention to environmental stimuli, and irregular sleep patterns. Some of the common teratogens are smoking, caffeine, drugs, pollutants, and stress. Pollutants like mercury and lead have been proven to have substantial teratogen effects including premature births, brain damage, mental retardation, and physical defects in infants. Infants exposed to substances like heroin, cocaine, and methadone at their prenatal stage have been reported to be born with physical deformities, low birth weight, and respiratory troubles. Apart from these explicit factors, the stress in expecting mothers has also been identified as a strong teratogen and may lead to low birth weight, behavioral anomalies, and emotional problems in the child in infancy and future stages of life.