Skinner, a prominent behaviorist, proposed the theory of operant conditioning. This theory suggests that behaviors are learned through reinforcement, where positive reinforcement (like parental praise or attention) strengthens the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.
Skinner argued that children learn language by imitating their parents and other caregivers, and that their attempts at speech are reinforced by positive responses from adults. This reinforcement process, he believed, would lead to the development of increasingly complex language skills.
However, Skinner's theory has been criticized for oversimplifying the process of language acquisition. While reinforcement might play a role, it doesn't fully explain the complex and innate abilities children have for language development.