An Overview of the Theories
Burrhus Frederick Skinner – Behavioral Analysis theory
Critical tenets of the theory
Behavioral development theory relies on measurable, observable behaviors to explain human personality development. According to Skinner, development occurs through learning, which is initiated solely by reinforcement. As a result, behaviorism in developing a child’s personality focuses on the effects of environmental interactions on a child. According to the theory, personality development is a reaction to reinforcement, stimulus, punishment, and reward. As a result, Skinner’s theory claims that behavior is influenced by natural environmental outcomes rather than internal processes.