Learning & Cognition Concepts

The tendency to respond differently to stimuli that are similar but not identical. Involves choosing one stimulus from a set based on differences that discriminate.

The tendency to respond in the same way to different but similar stimuli. Generalization helps us apply past learning to new situations.

The gradual weakening and disappearance of a learned response. Think of a dog no longer responding to a bell after the food reward has been removed.

A type of learning that occurs without reinforcement but is not demonstrated until there is a reason to do so. You might learn how to get around your new town, but only use that knowledge when you need to get somewhere specific.

Our brains are wired to remember things that are meaningful. It's based on the idea that positive experiences strengthen connections and increase the likelihood of a behavior repeating.

A psychological theory by Bandura that suggests that a person's behavior, thoughts, and environment all influence one another. It is not a one-way street, but a continuous interplay.

A concept in psychology referring to a series of innate, unlearned, and fixed behavioral patterns occurring in response to specific stimuli.

Proposed by Freud, this theory suggests that the human personality is comprised of three main components: the id, ego, and superego. Each component has different functions and motivations impacting our behavior.

A theory of motivation that suggests that people are motivated by a desire to reach a state of arousal that is optimal for them. This means finding the right level of stimulation to keep us engaged and motivated.

A theory of motivation based on the idea that people are motivated to achieve something that is positive or rewarding.