Classical Conditioning Processes

Questions and Answers

What is the process of linking a neutral stimulus and an unconditioned stimulus in classical conditioning called?

Generalization

Discrimination

Aquisition (correct)

Extinction

What is extinction in classical conditioning?

The diminishing of a conditioned response.

What is spontaneous recovery?

The reappearance of an extinguished conditioned response after a pause.

What does generalization refer to in classical conditioning?

The tendency for stimuli similar to the conditioned stimulus to elicit similar responses. Signup and view all the answers

What is discrimination in classical conditioning?

The learned ability to distinguish between a conditioned stimulus and other stimuli. Signup and view all the answers

What is classical conditioning?

A type of learning where one learns to link two or more stimuli. Signup and view all the answers

What does behaviorism study?

Behavior without reference to mental processes. Signup and view all the answers

An unlearned, naturally occurring response to an unconditioned stimulus is called a(n) ______.

unconditional response (UR) Signup and view all the answers

What is an unconditioned stimulus (US)?

A stimulus that triggers a response naturally and automatically. Signup and view all the answers

What is a conditioned response (CR)?

A learned response to a previously neutral stimulus. Signup and view all the answers

What is a conditioned stimulus (CS)?

An originally irrelevant stimulus that triggers a conditioned response after association. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Classical Conditioning Concepts

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.

Key Terms in Classical Conditioning

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).

Description

Explore key concepts in classical conditioning with these flashcards. This quiz covers essential terms such as acquisition and extinction, providing a foundational understanding of how learning and behavior modification occur through classical conditioning.