Basic Processes of Learning, Cognition, and Motivation

First published in 1986. The main objective of this book is to provide a hard-headed theoretical integration of several different major areas of research on learning, cognition, and motivation in humans and other mammals. By hard-headed, the author simply means that the concepts were generated from empirical data and are testable. Since an integrative theory must of necessity integrate apparent diversity, such an approach involves the identification and description of the most fundamental factors (structural processes) underlying the observed capacities of humans and animals in the domain of learning and motivation.

SECTION I: THE THEORETICAL ARGUMENT Chapter 1 The Theoretical Approach Chapter 2 Outline of the Theory SECTION II: THE INFORMATION PROCESSING MECHANISM: GENERAL PROCESSES Chapter 3 Stimulus Analyzing Processes Chapter 4 Response Processes Chapter 5bMotivational Processes SECTION III: THE BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS DIVISION OF THE IPM Chapter 6The Reinforcer and Habituative Systems: Theory and Definitions Chapter 7 Habituative Processes Chapter 8 Affective Properties of Cues Chapter 9 Stimulus Selection Chapter 10 Behavior on Reinforcement Schedules Chapter 11 Neurological Substrates of the Reinforcer and Habituative Systems SECTION IV: MEMORIAL PROCESSES OF THE IPM Chapter 12 The Structural Processes of Memory Chapter 13 Encoding and Retrieval Chapter 14 The Functional Characteristics of Memories SECTION V: COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS AND THE IPM Chapter 15 Developmental Changes in Cognitive Function Chapter 16 General Intelligence Chapter 17 Specific Aptitudes

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Stephen M. Cormier The George Washington University