I am writing a paper for Pyschology about how I have a tendency after washing my hands I have this pattern to take the paper towel or hand cloth and use it to open the door. Which psychological theory would this fall under?

1.Classical Conditioning
2. Operant Conditioning
3.Social Cognitive
4. Psychoanalytical
5. Psychodynamic.

Assuming that the behavior was modeled for you, social cognitive.

thanks!

You're welcome!

To determine which psychological theory your tendency falls under, let's briefly explain each theory and analyze your behavior:

1. Classical Conditioning: This theory suggests that behaviors are learned through associations between stimuli. In classical conditioning, an unconditioned stimulus (UCS) that elicits a natural response is paired with a neutral stimulus (NS) until the NS becomes a conditioned stimulus (CS) that elicits the same response. For example, if every time you washed your hands you used a paper towel to open the door, you might have associated the act of using a paper towel with cleanliness and safety, which now triggers a positive response.

2. Operant Conditioning: This theory focuses on learning through consequences and reinforcement. If you use a paper towel to open the door after washing your hands, and it leads to a positive outcome (e.g., feeling clean, avoiding potential germs), you might be more likely to repeat this behavior due to the positive reinforcement.

3. Social Cognitive Theory: This theory emphasizes the role of observation and imitation in learning behavior. If you have observed others using a paper towel to open doors after handwashing or someone has explicitly taught you to do so, this behavior could be influenced by social learning.

4. Psychoanalytical/Psychodynamic: These theories emphasize unconscious motivations and conflicts shaping behavior. While your tendency to use a paper towel may not directly align with these theories, individuals' behaviors can be influenced by unconscious factors that psychoanalytic and psychodynamic theories explore.

Considering these theories, your tendency to use a paper towel or hand cloth to open doors after washing your hands seems to align most closely with operant conditioning. The positive reinforcement you experience, such as feeling clean and safe, may encourage you to continue this behavior. However, it's worth noting that social cognitive theory could also play a role if observation or instructions from others have influenced your behavior.