Who is known for the "Little Albert Study" in the field of behaviorism?

The "Little Albert Study" is famously associated with John B. Watson, who is a pivotal figure in the field of behaviorism. This study, conducted in 1920, involved conditioning a child, Albert, to exhibit fear towards a white rat through the use of loud, frightening noises. The significance of this experiment lies in Watson's demonstration of classical conditioning, showing that emotional responses could be conditioned in individuals. This research was key in illustrating how behaviors and emotional reactions could be acquired through environmental stimuli, a core principle of behaviorist theory. This understanding laid foundational groundwork for later research in psychology, emphasizing that behavior is learned and can be altered, rather than being an inherent trait. Watson's contributions, particularly through the "Little Albert" experiment, helped shape the direction of behaviorism and its application in understanding human behavior.