AP PSYCH QUIZ 8

Classical Conditioning

A type of learning in which we link two or more stimuli, leading to behavior in anticipation of a stimulus.

Positive Reinforcement

Increasing behaviors by presenting a pleasurable stimulus to strengthen the response.

Shaping

An operant conditioning procedure where reinforcers guide behavior toward closer approximations of the desired behavior.

Variable-Ratio Schedule

A reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response after an unpredictable number of responses.

Extinction

The diminishing of a conditioned response when an unconditioned stimulus does not follow a conditioned stimulus.

Conditioned Response (CR)

A learned response in classical conditioning to a previously neutral (now conditioned) stimulus (CS).

Generalization

The tendency for stimuli similar to the conditioned stimulus to elicit similar responses.

Law of Effect

Thorndike’s principle stating that behaviors followed by favorable consequences become more likely, while those followed by unfavorable consequences become less likely.

Higher-Order Conditioning

A procedure where a conditioned stimulus from one experience is paired with a new neutral stimulus, creating a second conditioned stimulus.

Operant Conditioning

A type of learning in which behavior becomes more likely with reinforcement or less likely with punishment.

Negative Reinforcement

Increasing behaviors by stopping or reducing an aversive stimulus.

Learned Helplessness

The hopelessness and passive resignation learned when unable to avoid repeated aversive events.

Variable-Interval Schedule

A reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response at unpredictable time intervals.

Unconditioned Response (UCR)

An unlearned, naturally occurring response to an unconditioned stimulus (UCS).

Conditioned Stimulus (CS)

An originally neutral stimulus that triggers a conditioned response after association with an unconditioned stimulus (UCS).

Habituation

Decreasing responsiveness with repeated stimulation.

Modeling

The process of observing and imitating a specific behavior.

Spontaneous Recovery

The reappearance of a weakened conditioned response after a pause.

Punishment

An event that tends to decrease the behavior it follows.

Fixed-Interval Schedule

A reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response only after a specified time has elapsed.

Fixed-Ratio Schedule

A reinforcement schedule that reinforces a response only after a specified number of responses.

Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS)

A stimulus that unconditionally triggers an unconditioned response (UCR).

Discrimination

The learned ability to distinguish between a conditioned stimulus and other stimuli that have not been associated with a conditioned stimulus.

Acquisition

The initial stage in classical conditioning where a neutral stimulus begins to trigger the conditioned response.

Cognitive Map

A mental representation of the layout of one’s environment.