Which of the following is NOT a criticism of the behaviorist view of language acquisition?

The reasoning behind why the choice indicating that "language acquisition involves innate processes" is not a criticism of the behaviorist view is rooted in a fundamental understanding of the behaviorist perspective on learning. Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and typically attributes language acquisition primarily to conditioning processes, such as imitation and reinforcement.

The behaviorist view posits that children learn language by mimicking the speech of adults and receiving reinforcement for correct usage. Thus, discussing innate processes directly contradicts the core tenet of behaviorism, which emphasizes external stimuli and learned behaviors rather than internal, biological mechanisms.

In contrast, the other options reflect criticisms leveled against the behaviorist view. The notion that children learn language exclusively through imitation underestimates other factors like cognitive development and social interaction. The idea that reinforcement is ineffective with infants highlights limitations in the behaviorist framework, particularly regarding the complexity of language and communication at such early stages. Finally, the assertion that language learning is observed purely through behavior dismisses the cognitive processes that also play a significant role in acquiring language.

Therefore, recognizing that language acquisition may involve innate processes aligns more closely with alternative theories, such as nativism, which argue that humans are born with an inherent capacity for language development. This distinction is essential in