Psychology of Learning: Classical Conditioning Theory

This set of flashcards covers the key concepts of Classical Conditioning Theory discussed in the lecture, including definitions of terms and explanations of conditioning paradigms.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired, leading to a learned response to the neutral stimulus.

CS

Conditioned Stimulus; a previously neutral stimulus that, after conditioning, elicits a conditioned response.

UCS

Unconditioned Stimulus; a stimulus that unconditionally, naturally, and automatically triggers a response without prior learning.

CR

Conditioned Response; a learned response to a previously neutral stimulus that is now conditioned.

NS

Neutral Stimulus; a stimulus that initially does not elicit any intrinsic response.

Temporal Contiguity

The principle that the conditioned stimulus (CS) and unconditioned stimulus (UCS) must be presented close together in time for conditioning to occur.

Delayed Conditioning

A conditioning paradigm where the CS is presented before the UCS and remains until the UCS begins.

Trace Conditioning

A conditioning paradigm where the CS ends before the UCS begins.

Simultaneous Conditioning

A conditioning paradigm where the CS and UCS are presented at the same time.

Backward Conditioning

A conditioning paradigm where the CS is presented after the UCS.

Temporal Conditioning

A conditioning paradigm where the UCS is presented at regular intervals of time.

Overshadowing

A phenomenon where a more salient stimulus within a compound stimulus overshadows the conditioning of a less salient stimulus.

CS-US Belongingness

The idea that certain stimuli are more naturally associated and likely to produce a conditioned response.

Phobia

A conditioned fear that is disproportionate to the actual threat posed by the situation.

Generalization

The tendency for the conditioned response to be evoked by stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus.

Discrimination

The ability to distinguish between different stimuli, responding only to the conditioned stimulus.