Question

Choose one of the major learning theories - behaviorist, cognitive, social learning, psychodynamic, or humanist - and discuss how that theory can be used to increase or decrease a behavior. Discuss and give an example of how you might apply these principles when you teach patients in your area.

Answer 1

Theories are a set of framework consists of defined principles and concepts. Learning theories are a predefined set of principles helps am individual to learn new concepts , how to learn? what to learn? how to retain information learned? how to recall all the learned concepts?

Behaviorism theory is based on BF Skinners operant conditioning of learning, individual acquired new behavior by associating stimuli and responses. Positive learning behavior acquired by positive reinforcement in means of rewards, grades, verbal appreciation.

Cognitive learning is based on ideas acquired by the individual in his life process. Cognitive theory is framed by Jean Piaget, he focuses on cognitive development in children based on four stages sensorimotor, pre operational , concrete and formal.

Social learning theory states individual behavior is learned from society that is by observing behavior of others. Individual should possess good observation,attention and memory skills to acquire the social learned behavior.

Psychodynamic theory is given by Sigmund Freud, Erik Erikson. This theory states the individual behavior is mainly based on their childhood experiences.

Humanist theory states individual behavior surrounds in meeting his desires and needs. Maslow theory forms a base for humanism theory. It states individual learning process takes place only if their basic needs are met. Self actualization also forms a basis for positive learning act.

Principle of learning theory in patient education:

Adult directed learning theories is applicable to encourage patient to understand their disease process, treatment options, dietary management to improve the adherence to treatment protocol. Nurses must encourage patients to be responsible fro their learning. Nurses must educate client about health condition of client in detail. For example a patient diabetes mellitus with peripheral neuropathy must understand the definition of the disease.Nurses just explain neuropathy is a complication of uncontrolled diabetes. Strict adherence to dietary modifications, exercise regimen, drug therapy can help the patient to come out of serious complications. Nurses must formulate short term and long term gold in order to achieve the objectives.