psychology key vocab (behaviourism)

key terms in the behaviourist approach, i.e. Pavlov and Skinner

Classical conditioning

A learning process where two stimuli are linked together to produce a new learned response

Unconditioned stimulus

A stimulus that naturally triggers a reflexive response without any prior learning or conditioning.

Unconditioned response

An automatic

Neutral stimulus

A stimulus that initially produces no specific response other than focusing attention

Conditioned stimulus

A previously neutral stimulus that

Conditioned response

A learned reaction formed when a neutral stimulus (bell) is paired with an unconditioned stimulus (salivation)

Operant conditioning

Learning new behaviour as a result of consequences

Positive reinforcement

The introduction of desirable or pleasant stimuli after performance of desired behaviour

Negative reinforcement

Removing an unpleasant stimulus after the desired behaviour is displayed

Punishment

A negative consequence that follows undesired behaviour to reduce its future occurrence.

Contextual dependency

the idea that the environment in which an event occurs can influence the behaviour or learning of the individual