Ch 4 Video 2 Generalization and Discrimination

Generalization

The process by which a stimulus similar to a conditioned stimulus elicits a conditioned response.

Stimulus Generalization

A phenomenon where a conditioned response is elicited by stimuli that are similar, but not identical, to the conditioned stimulus.

Semantic Generalization

The tendency to respond to words that have similar meanings as a conditioned response.

Discrimination

The ability to differentiate between similar stimuli such that one elicits a conditioned response while another does not.

Discrimination Training Paradigm

A method used to teach an organism to differentiate between two different stimuli, typically one excites a response while the other inhibits it.

Experimental Neurosis

A condition observed in animals when they are unable to discriminate between two similar stimuli, leading them to exhibit behaviors resembling human anxiety.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a conditioned response through repeated pairing with an unconditioned stimulus.

Operant Conditioning

A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior.

Conditioned Stimulus (CS)

A previously neutral stimulus that, after being paired with an unconditioned stimulus, produces a conditioned response.

Conditioned Response (CR)

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

Unconditioned Stimulus (US)

A stimulus that naturally and automatically triggers a response without prior conditioning.

Unconditioned Response (UR)

The unlearned, naturally occurring response to the unconditioned stimulus.

Conditioning Trials

The process in which the conditioned stimulus is repeatedly paired with the unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response.

Spontaneous Recovery

The re-emergence of a previously extinguished conditioned response after a rest period.

Extinction

The process by which the conditioned response decreases or disappears after repeated exposure to the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus.