Classical Conditioning Processes

Study Notes

Acquisition: Initial phase of classical conditioning where a neutral stimulus (NS) is linked with an unconditioned stimulus (US), allowing the NS to trigger a conditioned response (CR). In operant conditioning, it refers to the strengthening of a reinforced behavior.
Extinction: Gradual reduction of a conditioned response. In classical conditioning, occurs when the US is no longer presented after the conditioned stimulus (CS). In operant conditioning, happens when responses cease to be reinforced.
Spontaneous Recovery: Reappearance of an extinguished conditioned response after a period of pause, indicating that conditioning can be renewed.
Generalization: Tendency of a conditioned response to occur in response to stimuli that are similar to the CS, demonstrating a broad application of learned behavior.
Discrimination: Ability to differentiate between the CS and other stimuli that do not signal the occurrence of the US, allowing for more precise responses to specific signals.

Classical Conditioning: Learning process where two or more stimuli are linked, leading to the anticipation of events based on learned associations.
Behaviorism: Perspective in psychology emphasizing that scientific study should focus on observable behavior rather than mental processes. While many psychologists agree with its objective approach, not all accept its exclusion of mental processes.
Unconditional Response (UR): Reflexive reaction that occurs naturally in response to an unconditioned stimulus (US), such as salivation when food is present.
Unconditioned Stimulus (US): A stimulus that automatically and naturally elicits a response without prior conditioning.
Conditioned Response (CR): Learned response triggered by a previously neutral stimulus (CS) after conditioning has taken place.
Conditioned Stimulus (CS): Initially neutral stimulus that, following association with an unconditioned stimulus (US), elicits a conditioned response (CR).