PSY 250 Wk 4 Discussion – Learning and Cognitive Theories

Post a total of 3 substantive responses over 2 separate days for full participation. This includes your initial post and 2 replies to classmates or your faculty member.

Due Thursday

In Chapter 18, “Rotter and Mischel: Cognitive Social Learning Theory,” you read about Walter Mischel’s “marshmallow test,” in which he researched self-regulation and delayed gratification. Review the description of the “marshmallow test” and its results on pages 561–563 of your textbook.

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:

• Imagine that you were invited to take the test as a child. Predict how you would have responded to the test. Would you have been able to exercise willpower and self-regulation? Why or why not? What techniques might you have used to delay gratification?
• Refer to Skinner’s Behaviorist theory. Based on your response to the marshmallow test, what might Skinner have to say about your personality? Incorporate two or more of the following terms in your response:
• Reinforcement (positive, negative, continuous, intermittent)
• Punishment (not to be confused with negative reinforcement)
• Social control
• Self-control

Due Monday

Post 2 replies to classmates or your faculty member. Be constructive and professional.