Tolman's theory related to :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

Edward C. Tolman's theory, known as Purposive Behaviorism or Sign-Gestalt Theory, heavily focuses on molar behavior—large, goal-directed, and purposeful acts—rather than molecular behavior. In his framework, Tolman introduced several crucial intervening variables to explain why organisms behave the way they do, bridging the gap between stimulus and response. One of these key components is **Cathexes**. Cathexes are learned associations between a particular object or type of goal (e.g., food) and the drive state (e.g., hunger) that satisfies it. Essentially, it is the learner's preference or aversion for certain goal objects established through experience. If a rat learns that a specific type of food reduces its hunger drive, a positive cathexis is formed, motivating future actions toward that specific goal. This concept is central to how Tolman explained motivation and the acquisition of goal-oriented behavior within his cognitive theory of learning.

The incorrect option is 1:
The term "Energy system" is not a core technical concept specifically associated with Tolman's cognitive theory of learning. While biological energy is necessary for behavior, this term does not capture the psychological intervening variables that Tolman proposed, such as cognitive maps, expectancies, or demands.

The incorrect option is 3:
"Topology" (a branch of mathematics dealing with space and geometrical properties) was used by another major learning theorist, Kurt Lewin, to represent his field theory (Life Space). Although both Lewin and Tolman were cognitive behaviorists, the concept of Topology is foundational to Lewin's theory, not Tolman's.

The incorrect option is 4:
The concept of "Development stages" is most famously associated with developmental psychologists like Jean Piaget (Cognitive Development Theory) and Erik Erikson (Psychosocial Development Theory). Tolman's theory primarily focused on the mechanics of learning and purposive behavior in adult organisms, not the age-related, fixed sequence of stages in human development.