Discuss learning theory as an explanation of attachment.
Updated: 6 days ago
Question 10 Mark Scheme
Discuss learning theory as an explanation of attachment.
[16 marks]
What is expected in the answer?
The command word “discuss” requires students to explain how attachment may be learned and then evaluate how successfully learning theory accounts for attachment formation. For 16 marks, students should accurately apply classical and operant conditioning to attachment, then develop research evidence, limitations and comparison with alternative explanations.
Learning theory is explicitly required as an explanation of attachment in the current specification. The June 2023 mark scheme identifies food or “cupboard love”, classical conditioning, operant conditioning and drive reduction as relevant knowledge. It also accepts other learning explanations such as social learning theory when clearly applied to attachment.
Marks for this question: AO1 = 6, AO3 = 10
As this is a 16-mark discussion question without a scenario, an appropriate allocation is AO1 = 6 and AO3 = 10.
Level | Marks | Description |
4 | 13–16 | Knowledge of learning theory as an explanation of attachment is accurate and generally well detailed. Classical and operant conditioning are clearly applied to attachment. Discussion is thorough and effective, with research evidence, theoretical limitations and/or alternative explanations clearly related to attachment. The answer is clear, coherent and focused, with effective use of specialist terminology. |
3 | 9–12 | Knowledge of learning theory is evident but there may be occasional inaccuracies or omissions. Discussion is mostly effective and relevant evidence is used appropriately. The answer is generally clear and organised but may lack development or focus in places. |
2 | 5–8 | Limited knowledge of learning theory is present. Classical and/or operant conditioning may be insufficiently developed or inaccurately applied to attachment. Discussion is only partly effective and the response may be mainly descriptive. |
1 | 1–4 | Knowledge is very limited or muddled. Learning principles may be described without explaining attachment. Discussion is limited, poorly focused or absent. Specialist terminology is absent or used inaccurately. |
0 | 0 | No relevant content. |
Indicative content
AO1: Learning theory
Credit relevant knowledge such as:
Learning theory is a behaviourist explanation of attachment.
It proposes that attachment develops through experience and learning rather than being entirely innate.
The caregiver becomes associated with satisfying the infant's basic needs, particularly food.
This has sometimes been described as a “cupboard love” explanation.
Attachment can be explained through:
classical conditioning
operant conditioning
drive reduction.
Other learning accounts, such as social learning theory, may be credited if clearly related to attachment.
Classical conditioning
Credit relevant explanation such as:
Before learning, food is an unconditioned stimulus (UCS) because it naturally produces pleasure or relief from hunger.
Want to read more?
Subscribe to revision-notes.com to keep reading this exclusive post.