J. B Watson's Little Albert Experiment

J.B Watson, who is generally regarded as the founder of behaviorism (Cornwell & Hobbs, 1976, p. 9) and R. Rayner was able to conduct many experiments such as one called the “Little Albert” experiment, in the year of 1920. These psychologists were trying to test the fear that this infant had on certain animals and masks. In other terms, they were testing his reactions to different objects or events that elicit sensory or behavioral responses. Watson believed that a child is born with a limited number of emotional reactions which develop through complex emotions of adulthood (Cornwell & Hobbs, 1976, p. 9). Watson and Rayner had four aims to direct to this experiment. One, to see if it is capable to activate the fear of neutral stimuli through classical conditioning. Two, to see if the fear will be relocated to similar looking objects. Three, to see how long it takes for the fear to trigger. Four, to see how possible it is to remove fear in their lab. Albert B was the infant's pseudonym (a fictitious name) given to protect his identity since he was put to be a test subject for these psychologists. He was “on the
The caretaker had an absence of informed consent even though it stated that she took the money that was offered. Nowadays, if you are involved as a participant in any psychological or medical study you are given the right that you can withdraw at any stage during the study without consequence for you. Albert and his mother were given no-such rights (Burgemeester.) The caretaker took Little Albert away before Watson and Rayner were able to remove his conditioned fear response. Although little Albert was removed from the hospital, that alone does not close the case. This experiment was unethical, and the experimenters knew at least a month in advance that he would be leaving (Cornwell & Hobbs, 1976, p.