Which phonemic theory emphasizes reinforcement in speech development?

The behaviorist theory emphasizes the role of reinforcement in speech development, focusing on how observable behaviors are shaped through interactions with the environment. According to this theory, children learn to speak and refine their speech skills primarily through imitation and reinforcement. For example, when a child utters a sound or word correctly, they may receive praise or attention, which reinforces that behavior, making it more likely to be repeated in the future.

This approach highlights the importance of stimuli and responses, suggesting that the development of language is a behavior that can be learned through conditioning. In contrast to other theories, behaviorism does not delve deeply into internal cognitive processes or social dynamics; instead, it presents a clear mechanism through which speech is developed based on the principles of reinforcement and feedback.