The Little Albert Experiment and the Legacy of John B. Watson

John B. Watson, a prominent behaviorist, claimed he could shape infants into any profession through conditioning, regardless of their background. He demonstrated this with the Little Albert experiment, conditioning a baby to fear a rat. Watson believed behavior was a result of environmental factors, not genetics, and applied these ideas to child-rearing, advising emotional distance. His methods influenced parenting practices, but his own children suffered, leading him to regret his advice. Watson's work emphasized behaviorism's role in psychology, focusing on observable actions over thoughts.

What was the main method used by Watson in the Little Albert experiment to instill fear?

• Operant conditioning

• Positive reinforcement

• Observational learning

• Classical conditioning

How did Watson's approach to psychology differ from that of Freud and Jung?

• He concentrated on observable actions and reactions.

• He emphasized the analysis of thoughts and feelings.

• He focused on dreams and the unconscious mind.

• He believed in the power of introspection.

According to Watson, what primarily determines a child's intelligence and personality?

• Genetic predispositions

• The environment they are raised in

• Their innate temperament

• Parental affection

What was one of the key pieces of advice Watson gave to parents in his book?

• Allow children to develop their own routines.

• Encourage children to express emotions freely.

• Maintain an emotional distance to avoid spoiling them.

• Spend as much time as possible playing with children.

What was a significant outcome in Watson's personal life related to his child-rearing methods?

• His children became successful psychologists.

• His children experienced severe personal issues.

• He was awarded for his parenting techniques.

• His methods were universally adopted without criticism.