Classical Conditioning and Pavlov's Experiments

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to classical conditioning and Pavlov's experiments, aiding understanding and retention.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process in which two stimuli are paired together to produce a new learned response.

Unconditioned Stimulus (US)

A stimulus that unconditionally triggers a response without prior learning.

Unconditioned Response (UR)

An unlearned, naturally occurring response to an unconditioned stimulus.

Conditioned Stimulus (CS)

A previously neutral stimulus that, after association with an unconditioned stimulus, comes to trigger a conditioned response.

Conditioned Response (CR)

The learned response to a previously neutral stimulus that has become conditioned.

Neutral Stimulus (NS)

A stimulus that initially elicits no response before conditioning.

Extinction

The diminishing of a conditioned response when the unconditioned stimulus no longer follows the conditioned stimulus.

Spontaneous Recovery

The reappearance, after a pause, of an extinguished conditioned response.

Acquisition

The initial stage of learning when a response is established.

Trial

The process of repetition that occurs in classical conditioning to connect the conditioned and unconditioned stimuli.

Overgeneralization

The tendency to respond similarly to similar stimuli, often leading to conditioned responses inappropriately.

Reflex

An automatic, involuntary response to a stimulus.

Stimulus

Any event or situation that evokes a response.

Response

A reaction to a specific stimulus.

Ivan Pavlov

A Russian physiologist known for his work in classical conditioning through experiments with dogs.

Conditioned Emotional Response

An emotional reaction that is learned through classical conditioning.

Higher-order conditioning

Occurs when a strong conditioned stimulus is paired with a neutral stimulus

Before conditioning

UCS → UCR ; NS → no response

During conditioning

NS + UCS → UCR

After conditioning

CS →CR