An introduction to behaviorism. The biological roots of behaviorism are reviewed, and the shift from psychoanalysis to science is examined. Seminal works discussed in this lesson include Ivan Pavlov’s research on reflex-driven learning and Edward Thorndike’s Laws of Effect and Exercise. The four characteristics of behaviorist philosophy are discussed.
Countries: US
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The Rational/Empirical Split in Learning Theory
Examines the dispute between two trends in learning theory. This lesson touches on the philosophical distinction between social learning theories (rational) and radical behaviorism (empirical). Students are challenged to think about how the methodology of learning research is influenced by either of these two divergent philosophies.
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Social and Cognitive Learning Theories, Part 1
Discusses research that tempers radical behaviorism with intrapsychic constructs. This lesson outlines the challenge to strict behaviorist empiricism as found in the works of such researchers as John Dollard. Students learn how the “drive-cue-response-reward” model relates more to the idea of “psyche” as “mind” than classical behaviorism.
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Social and Cognitive Learning Theories, Part 2
Continues the behaviorist debate introduced in Class 11. Albert Bandura’s more humanistic contributions to behaviorism are introduced. Students are challenged to compare Bandura’s theory of “reciprocal determinism” to B. F. Skinner’s classical behaviorist theories.
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Sigmund Freud’s Early Theories
Examines the roots of psychoanalysis. The lesson traces the evolution of Freud’s early clinical work on “hysteria” in the late 1800s and describes how it contributed to his early theoretical discipline. Students learn about Freud’s initial theory of the mind and his interpretation of dreams.
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Hooking Up – Upside, Downside
Discusses the pros and cons of casual sex. Investigative reporters and relationship experts present the advantages and disadvantages of “hooking up”. Discussion reveals how gender affects our perceptions of casual sex, and emphasizes the importance of safe-sex awareness.
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What to Look for in a Mate
Takes a look at statistical predictors of effective partner selection. Students learn how such variables as compatibility, accountability, ethnicity, and communication styles play a hand in mate selection. Neuroscientific research reveals how common notions of attraction based on familiarity can often go awry.
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How to Tell When you are Really in Love
Further examines the skills that help sustain true love. Discussion emphasizes the importance of tuning into and committing to true love. Topics include the high correlation between romantic expectations and divorce, and the role of Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs in successful relationships.
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Seven Tests Before you Commit
Outlines what you need to know before you commit to a relationship. Lecture defines seven areas critical to building relations, and discussion explains the impact of each on love relationships. Students learn how true commitment can help us weather the inevitable problems that naturally occur in any relationships.
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Cohabitation – The Plain Facts
Exposes myths and highlights research on the subject of “living together”. The lesson identifies the pros and cons of non-marital cohabitation and explains the dangers of “sliding” into as opposed to “deciding” on this form of commitment. Deciding factors discussed by the class include the statistical realities of cohabitation, the conflicting male-female expectations about cohabitation, and the surprising correlations between cohabitation, divorce, and general dissatisfaction.