Chapter 2 How and Why People Develop and Learn 31
Checkpoint
1. What is behaviorism?
2. Who demonstrated the idea of behaviorism through his infamous
experiment with a dog? What has this been termed?
3. What is operant conditioning? Who was well-known for identifying this
principle?
4. What is social cognitive theory?
Which Theory Is Correct?
There are hundreds of theories about the ways humans develop. This text-
book covers just a few. Which theory is the most correct? No one theory should
be regarded as the absolute truth. Humans are much too complex to describe
using simplistic theory.
Although there are many different and sometimes conflicting ways to
explain human development, most are valid to some extent. Some theories may
fit better than others. Sometimes theories may conflict. The conflict between two
theories, however, often leads to more valid insights. You can benefit from under-
standing several approaches to development and applying them to people of all
ages with whom you interact.
Throughout your life there will always be more theories that emerge as
knowledge about human development grows. This makes studying lifespan
development exciting. For example, in recent years scientists have been debating
the origin of specific characteristics or traits of people, such as mathematical
problem-solving abilities. Is this an inborn trait or a learned trait? Theories about
the development of specific traits are discussed in the next section.
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A teen may tackle a tough math problem by imitating a teacher.