The learning perspective in psychology focuses on how our environment and experiences shape our behavior. This perspective emphasizes the role of learning processes, such as conditioning and reinforcement, in developing and modifying behavior.
There are two main types of learning that are central to this perspective: classical conditioning and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning involves learning through association, where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus and eventually triggers a similar response. Operant conditioning, on the other hand, involves learning through consequences, where behaviors are strengthened or weakened based on the rewards or punishments that follow them.
Understanding the learning perspective helps psychologists and educators develop strategies to teach new behaviors, modify existing ones, and address behavioral issues. It also provides insights into how habits are formed and how they can be changed.