MCAT P/S Classical Conditioning Flashcards

Study Notes

Classical Conditioning Overview

Classical conditioning is a learning process where two stimuli are paired, altering the response to one of them.
Pavlov's Dogs is a foundational study demonstrating this concept.

Neutral Stimulus (NS)

A Neutral Stimulus does not evoke a response initially.
Example: The sound of a bell before training in Pavlov’s experiment.

Unconditioned Stimulus (US) and Unconditioned Response (UR)

An Unconditioned Stimulus (US) triggers an Unconditioned Response (UR) automatically, without prior learning.
Example: Food (US) naturally causes salivation (UR).

Conditioned Stimulus (CS) and Conditioned Response (CR)

A Conditioned Stimulus (CS) starts as a Neutral Stimulus but, after pairing with a US, can evoke a response.
Example: After training, the bell becomes a CS eliciting salivation (CR).

Learning Curve Components

Key phases in classical conditioning:
- Acquisition: Learning the conditioned response.
- Extinction: When the conditioned response fades due to lack of pairing.
- Spontaneous Recovery: Reappearance of the conditioned response after a break.
- Generalization: Responding to stimuli similar to the CS.
- Discrimination: Responding only to the specific CS.

Acquisition

Involves learning to associate the CS with the US, where both are presented together consistently.

Extinction

Occurs when the CS is repeatedly presented without the US, leading to a cessation of the CR.

Spontaneous Recovery

Represents the return of a previously extinguished CR after a period of rest and presentation of the CS.

Generalization

The tendency to respond to stimuli similar to the CS, exemplified by dogs salivating to various similar sounds (e.g., doorbells).

Discrimination

The ability to distinguish between the CS and other stimuli, resulting in a response only to the specific CS (e.g., the dog salivating only to the bell sound, not other similar sounds).

Description

Test your knowledge of classical conditioning concepts with these flashcards tailored for the MCAT. Each card features key terminology and definitions, such as neutral stimulus and unconditioned stimulus, to help reinforce your understanding of this essential psychological principle.