Pysch 1X03 - Classical Conditioning

Week 2

Classical Conditioning

The learning of a contingency (cause and effect) between a particular signal and a later event that are paired in time and/or place

Instrumental conditioning

Allows us to associate actions and consequences

Contingencies

When one stimulus reliably predicts the presentation of another stimulus (cause and effect)

Unconditioned Stimulus

Unconditionally and automatically triggers a response in absence of learning/being taught

Unconditioned Response

Usually a biologically programmed reflex

Conditioned stimulus

Previously neutral stimulus that becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus to eventually trigger a response of its own

Conditioned Response

The response that occurs once the contingency (cause and effect) between the CS and the US has been learned

Acquisition

Process where a contingency between CS and US is learned

In acquisition the most learning occurs during _____ trials

Early

Extinction

Loss of conditioned response when conditioned stimulus no longer predicts the unconditioned stimulus

Spontaneous Recovery

The sudden recovery of a conditioned response following a rest period after extinction

Stimulus Generalization

Process where stimulus similar to conditioned response will also elicit conditioned response (Hint: Think War victims)

Stimulus discrimination

Restricts the range of conditioned stimuli that can elicit a response

CS+

Presence of biological stimulus

CS-

Absence of biological stimulus

Implosive Therapy

Individual with phobia encouraged to confront CS that invokes their anxiety

Compensatory Response

Process which counteracts a challenge to homeostasis (Think withdrawals)