Final answer:
Dr. Grath's views on language development through imitation and reinforcement are most consistent with B. F. Skinner's reinforcement theory and Albert Bandura's social learning theory, highlighting a combination of environmental influences and biological predispositions in language acquisition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dr. Grath's belief that language development is influenced by imitation and reinforcement aligns with behaviorist B. F. Skinner's views. Skinner's well-known theory posits that language is learned through reinforcement and feedback, such as parental approval or comprehension in social interactions. Accordingly, simple phrases like "me juice" from a child are positively reinforced when a caregiver responds appropriately, enhancing language learning.
However, Noam Chomsky challenged this view, introducing the concept of an innate language acquisition device (LAD), suggesting that humans are biologically predisposed to learn language. Modern researchers bridge these theories, recognizing that language development is a complex interplay of nature and nurture.
Additionally, Albert Bandura's social learning theory underscores the importance of imitation and observational learning in acquiring not just language, but a range of behaviors and social norms. This context adds weight to theory that language learning is influenced by social and environmental factors, as well as biological predispositions, within a supportive cultural and societal framework.