Question

Discuss the nature and importance of learning, and describe how one may use the principles of learning theories we discussed to break a habit.

Answer 1

Learning is defined as a change in behavior resulting from
repeated practice. The principles of learning are always operat-
ing and always influencing human activity. Learning principles
are often deeply involved in the etiology and maintenance of psy-
chiatric disorders because so much of human behavior (including
overt behavior, thought patterns, and emotion) is acquired through
learning. Learning processes also strongly influence psychother-
apy because human behavior changes. Thus, learning principles
can influence the effectiveness of therapy.

Operant conditioning, developed by B.F. Skinner occurs when a behavior (instead of a stimulus) is associated with a psychologically significant event.

When the action leads to a positive outcome, the action is strengthened; conversely, when the action leads to a negative outcome, we have punishment, and the action is weakened.

In a similar manner, when an action decreases the probability of a positive event, behavior also declines. (Such a procedure is now widely known as time-out from reinforcement.) This particular principle can be used to break a habit.