Functionalistic Theories
According to (Bennett Carson, 1990) “Skinner developed a new model of learning- Operant Conditioning- in which behavior operates upon the environment and is shaped by the consequences. His model was totally different from John Watson’s earlier behaviorism, which was based upon Pavlov’s respondent conditioning of reflexes. His view point also differed from the reward- and- punishment approach of E.L. Thorndike in the identification and operational definitions of environmental influences and the importance of temporal and spatial relations between behavior and consequences” (Bennett Carson, 1990).
B.F. Skinner’s long and productive research program significantly influenced both applied and purely scientific psychology. Skinner’s system was straight forward and could be easily applied to problems ranging from animal training to human behavior modification therapy. His work led to the matching law and an indirect impact on current research in behavioral decision making. Other researchers conducted research on groups whereas, Skinner approached single experimental subjects he observed these for prolonged periods. Throughout his life, Skinner was stead fast in his insistence that psychologists should avoid theorizing especially about cognitive events, and be content with descriptive accounts of behavior (Olson & Hergenhahn, 2009).
Clark Leonard Hull learning theory had an enormous impact upon psychology. Hull’s most important contribution to psychology was his demonstration of the value of setting one’s sights upon the ultimate goal of a thoroughly scientific and systematic behavior theory. Hull was the first to make precise predictions about joint effects of learning and drive on behavior and about the affects of fatigue
Clark Leonard Hulls career can be divided into three separate parts. His first major concern was with the testing of aptitudes. Hulls second major concern was hyposis, and after a long study of the hyposis process...