Lecture on Classical Conditioning and Observational Learning

These flashcards cover major concepts related to classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning as discussed in the lecture.

Acquisition

The initial learning phase in classical conditioning.

Extinction

The weakening of a conditioned response when it is not reinforced.

Spontaneous recovery

The reappearance of a conditioned response after a rest period.

Generalization

Responses triggered by stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus (CS).

Discrimination

Responses that are not triggered by dissimilar stimuli.

Law of Effect

The principle that behaviors followed by pleasant consequences are strengthened, while those followed by unpleasant consequences are weakened.

Operant conditioning

A learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.

Positive reinforcement

Adding a desirable stimulus after a behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior.

Negative reinforcement

Removing an aversive stimulus after a behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior.

Positive punishment

Adding an aversive stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior.

Negative punishment

Removing a desirable stimulus after a behavior to decrease the likelihood of that behavior.

Observational learning

Learning that occurs by watching others.

Mirror neurons

Neurons that fire both when an animal acts and when the animal observes the same action performed by another.

Prosocial behavior

Positive, constructive behavior that benefits others.

Antisocial behavior

Behavior that is negative or harmful to others.

Shaping

Gradually guiding an animal toward the desired behavior by rewarding closer approximations.

Continuous reinforcement

Reinforcing a behavior every time it occurs, leading to rapid learning.

Intermittent reinforcement

Reinforcing a behavior only some of the time, leading to slower learning but greater resistance to extinction.

Fixed schedule of reinforcement

Reinforcement that occurs after a specified number of responses or a fixed time period.

Variable schedule of reinforcement

Reinforcement that occurs after an average number of responses or time period.

Temporal continuity

The presentation of a punishing consequence immediately after a behavior to be effective.