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    According to B.F. Skinner language development in children takes place
    Question



    According to B.F. Skinner language development in children takes place

    A.

    As an outcome of inborn capability

    B.

    As an outcome of training in grammar

    C.

    As an outcome of imitation and reinforcement

    D.

    As an outcome of maturity

    Correct option is C


    B.F. Skinner proposed that language development occurs through imitation and reinforcement. According to his behaviorist theory, children learn language by imitating the speech they hear from adults and caregivers, and their language use is reinforced by positive feedback, which encourages further language development.
    Information Booster:
    · Skinner's theory is based on the principles of operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by rewards and punishments.
    · Imitation is a key process, where children replicate the sounds, words, and phrases they hear from others around them.
    · Reinforcement helps strengthen the likelihood that a child will use the language correctly by offering praise or approval.
    · This theory is based on observable behavior and external stimuli, rather than inborn cognitive structures.
    · The learning environment plays a significant role in language acquisition, with caregivers' responses reinforcing language use.
    · Skinner's work highlights the importance of social interaction in learning and development, suggesting that language is learned similarly to other behaviors.
    Additional Information:
    · (a) Inborn capability – The nativist theory of language acquisition, proposed by Chomsky, argues that children are born with an inherent ability to learn language, contrasting Skinner’s behaviorist view.
    · (b) Training in grammar – While grammar learning is part of language development, Skinner focused on how children learn through interaction, rather than formal grammar instruction.
    · (d) Maturity – Skinner did not emphasize maturation as a driving force of language development, as his theory focused on learning through experience.

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