3 Dimensions of Stimulus Class Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a stimulus class?

A group of stimuli that share common elements (correct)

A single stimulus

A type of behavior

None of the above

What are the three dimensions that describe a stimulus class?

Formal, Functional, Temporal

What does the formal dimension of a stimulus refer to?

Physical features

Which of the following is NOT included in the formal dimension?

Effect on behavior Signup and view all the answers

How are stimuli described in the functional dimension?

By their effects on behavior Signup and view all the answers

Stimulus changes that occur prior to the behavior of interest are known as ______.

Antecedents Signup and view all the answers

Stimulus changes that follow a behavior of interest are referred to as ______.

Consequences Signup and view all the answers

What are antecedents?

Stimulus changes that exist prior to the behavior of interest. Signup and view all the answers

What are consequences in the context of behavior?

Stimulus changes that follow a behavior of interest. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these best defines the temporal dimension of a stimulus?

Described by when they occur with regard to behavior Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Stimulus Class

A stimulus class consists of stimuli sharing common characteristics in three dimensions: formal, functional, and temporal.

Formal Dimension

Defined by physical attributes of stimuli such as size, color, intensity, weight, and spatial position.
Stimuli can be described, manipulated, and measured based on these physical features.

Functional Dimension

Focuses on the impact of stimuli on behavior.
Stimulus changes can lead to:
- Immediate and temporary effects that increase or decrease current behavior frequency.
- Delayed and lasting effects on future behavior frequency.

Temporal Dimension

Concerned with the timing of stimuli in relation to behavior of interest.
Key stimuli types in this dimension include:
- Antecedent: Stimuli that occur before the behavior, influencing its occurrence.
- Consequences: Stimuli that follow the behavior, impacting its future frequency.

Antecedent

Refers to stimulus changes that exist or occur before the behavior of interest.

Consequences

Refers to stimulus changes that happen after the behavior of interest.

Description

Test your understanding of the three dimensions of stimulus classes with these flashcards. Each card defines key terms that are essential to grasping how stimuli are categorized based on formal, functional, and temporal characteristics. Perfect for students of psychology and behavior analysis.