Psychology Module: An Overview of Behavioral and Humanistic Theories

This presentation provides an overview of several key behavioral theories in psychology. It begins by explaining classical conditioning (Pavlov), operant conditioning (Thorndike, Skinner), and the environmental influence on behavior (Watson). The presentation then moves on to humanistic theories, including Maslow and Carl Rogers, and their focus on personal growth and fulfillment. It also covers psychodynamic theory, with a focus on Freud's ideas about the unconscious mind, and biological theories, including Darwin and Harlow, and their impact on understanding behavior. The document is a presentation that provides explanations of each theory and the key concepts associated with them. The presentation is designed to help students understand different approaches to studying human behavior. This assignment is available on Desklib, a platform offering AI-powered study tools.

Part 2 Portfolio presentation
Behavioral
Theories Explanation
Pavlov The theory involves classical conditioning
which involves learning to associate an
unconditional stimulus that already brings
about a specific response with a new
stimulus. This is developed so that new
stimulus can bring the same response. The
theory is based on an example (dog). It
says that dog does not need to learn. The
theory shows direct relationship between
unconditional stimulus and unconditioned
response which exists in behavior.
Thorndike The theory involves operant conditioning
within behaviorism. It has been conducted
on cats which and along with that, an
experiment is also conducted. It depicts the
law of effect which stated that any behavior
which is followed by pleasant
consequences is likely to happen on
repeated basis. However, on the other hand
the behavior that is followed by unpleasant
consequences is likely to be stopped.
Skinner The theory contends that classical
conditioning is far too simplistic to be a
complete examination of complex human
behavior. Hence, the best way to
comprehend behavior is to look at the
causes of an action and its consequences.
Watson The theory has been developed by applying

it to child development. The theory depicts
that a child’s environment is the factor that
shapes different behavior over the genetic
make up and natural temperament.
Humanistic
Theories Explanation
Maslow The theory states that humanism was a
reaction to both the pessimistic
determinism of psychoanalysis. It also
emphasizes on psychological disturbances
to the behaviorists views of humans that
reacts to the environment. Further, it is also
mentioned that personality of a person
changes the behavior and motivational
needs.
Carl Rogers The subsequent theory contends that in
order to grow, a person needs to have an
environment that can provide the
opportunity to become genuine, acceptable
and comprehensive.
Psychodynamic
Theory Explanation
Freud The theory sees that human functioning is
based upon the interaction of drives and
forces that exist within a person. It also
shows interrelationships amid different
structures of the personality. The theory
also contends that human behavior and
feelings are powerfully affected by

unconscious motives. Further, in the theory
it is also mentioned that all behavior has a
cause which is usually unconscious.
Biological
Theories Explanation
Darwin The theory states that all life is related and
has descended from a common ancestor. It
also presumes the development of life from
non – life and stresses which is a purely
naturalistic and undirected descent with
modification.
Harlow This study is based on the mental processes
of primates which include memory,
cognition and learning. In the experiment,
Harlow realized that monkeys are slow in
learning. After conducting the experiment,
he found out that there is a bond between
mother and infant monkey which also
develops diverse physiological needs.