B6. Learning

Classical Conditioning

A response that is evoked after repeated association with a stimulus that normally doesn't elicit a response

Operant Conditioning

Consequences of “operating” on the environment with reinforcements and punishments

Mowrer’s Two-Factor Theory of Avoidance Learning

Explains how fear-based avoidance behaviors are learned and maintained through a combination of classical conditioning and operant conditioning

Acquisition & Maintenance

Stages of Mowrer's Two-Factor Theory of Avoidance Learning

Acquisition

Stage 1 of Mowrer's Theory that involves classical Conditioning wherein a neutral stimulus is paired with an unconditioned stimulus that naturally elicits a fear response

Maintenance

Stage 2 of Mowrer's Theory in which the individual learns to avoid the conditioned stimulus . This provides relief from fear and anxiety which acts as negative reinforcement

Phobias & OCD

What disorders are associated with Mowrer's Theory?

Social Learning

States that learning occurs through observation, imitation, and modeling rather than solely through direct experience

Social Cognitive Theory

Theory that states that cognitive processes are at work as people observe models, learn chunks of behavior, and mentally put the chunks together into complex new behavior patterns

Learned Helplessness

How individuals (and animals) can develop a perceived lack of control over their circumstances after repeated exposure to uncontrollable, adverse events

Internal, Stable, & Global

3 Dimensions of the Reformulated Learned Helplessness Model

Learned Optimism

If people faced with considerable stress and difficulty in their lives, nevertheless, display an optimistic, upbeat attitude, they are likely to function better psychologically and physically

Prepared Learning

We have become highly prepared for learning about certain types of objects or situations over the course of evolution because this knowledge contributes to the survival of the species

Hopelessness Theory

A negative expectation that highly desired outcomes will not occur, or that highly aversive outcomes will occur, and that one has no control over these outcomes

Primary gain

Refers to the relief from psychological conflict or anxiety that a person experiences by developing physical or psychological symptoms (unconscious) which act as a defense mechanisms

Secondary gain

The external advantages or benefits a person receives as a result of their symptoms, often unconsciously. These benefits reinforce the continuation of the symptoms, as they provide some form of gratification or relief from other issues