definitions

Classical conditioning

A form of learning where an existing reflex response is elicited by the repeated pairing of two unrelated stimuli.

Response

Behaviour that emerges as a result of a stimulus.

Reflex response

An automatic, involuntary, and almost instantaneous response to a stimulus.

Neutral stimulus

A stimulus that on its own does not elicit a particular response.

Unconditioned stimulus

A stimulus with the inherent ability to elicit a reflex response.

Unconditioned response

The reflexive reaction to a specific unconditioned stimulus.

Conditioned stimulus

A stimulus that elicits a particular response due to learning.

Conditioned response

A reflex response elicited by a previously neutral stimulus as a consequence of learning.

Stimulus generalisation

When a stimulus similar to a conditioned stimulus elicits the same response as the conditioned stimulus.

Stimulus discrimination

When a stimulus does not elicit the conditioned response because it differs significantly from the original stimulus.

Extinction

When repeated presentation of the conditioned stimulus on its own ceases to elicit a response due to lack of association with the unconditioned stimulus.

Spontaneous recovery

The sudden reappearance of a previously extinct conditioned response after the unconditioned stimulus has been absent for some time.

Operant conditioning

A type of learning where the consequence of behaviour determines whether it will be repeated.

Reinforcement

A consequence that increases the likelihood of a behaviour repeating.

Punishment

A consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behaviour repeating.

Positive reinforcement

The addition of stimuli that increase the likelihood of behaviour being repeated.

Negative reinforcement

The removal of stimuli that increase the likelihood of the behaviour being repeated.

Positive punishment

The addition of stimuli that decrease the likelihood of the behaviour being repeated.

Negative punishment

The removal of stimuli that decrease the likelihood of the behaviour being repeated.

Fixed schedule

A predictable schedule where the length of time or number of responses between reinforcements does not change.

Variable schedule

An unpredictable schedule where the length of time or number of responses between reinforcements varies.

Ratio schedule

A schedule dependent on the quantity of responses needed before reinforcement is provided.

Interval schedule

A schedule reliant on the length of time between reinforcements.

Fixed ratio schedule

Reinforcement takes place following a set number of responses.

Fixed interval

Reinforcement takes place at fixed time intervals.

Variable ratio

Reinforcement takes place after an unpredictable number of responses.

Variable interval

Reinforcement takes place at irregular time intervals.

Observational learning

Learning where the observer watches a model, notices the consequences of their behaviour, and decides whether to imitate it.

Model

The person who sets an example for others to imitate through their actions.

Learner

The person who is observing the model.

Vicarious reinforcement

A form of observational learning in which the observed consequences of a model's actions affect the learner's behaviour.

Phobia

Intense and irrational fear of an object or situation that persists over time.

Systematic desensitisation

Type of therapy that combines relaxation techniques with gradual exposure to overcome a phobia.

Token economy

Behaviour modification technique based on operant conditioning principles using symbolic reinforcers to encourage behaviour.

Secondary reinforcer

The symbolic tokens used to motivate desired behaviour.

Primary reinforcer

The tangible reward.

Behaviour modification

Application of classical and operant conditioning techniques to human behaviour and learning.