u4 D1

Learning

  • Definition: The acquisition of novel information, behaviors, or abilities through practice, observation, or experiences.

  • Evidence of Learning:

    • Demonstrated by changes in behavior, knowledge, or brain function.

  • Cognitive Processes:

    • Mentally organizing information, forming coherent cognitive representations.

    • Integrating new information with long-term memory (LTM).

Behavioral Perspective

  • Definition: Approach to psychology developed by John B. Watson.

    • Emphasizes the study of observable, measurable behaviors over subjective experiences.

Key Concepts in Associative Learning

  • Association: Linking two learned items or events over time.

  • Associative Learning: Learning that certain events occur together.

Classical Conditioning

  • Definition: Associating an involuntary response with a specific stimulus.

  • Key Elements:

    • Neutral Stimulus (NS): Initially triggers no specific response.

    • Unconditioned Stimulus (US): Naturally triggers a reflexive response without learning.

    • Unconditioned Response (UR): Automatic response triggered by the unconditioned stimulus.

    • Conditioned Stimulus (CS): Formerly neutral stimulus that, after association with the US, triggers a response.

    • Conditioned Response (CR): Learned response to the conditioned stimulus.

  • Processes:

    • Pairing: Linking the NS and US together.

    • Acquisition: Learning the association between the NS and US.

    • Extinction: Diminishing of a conditioned response when the US no longer follows the CS.

    • Spontaneous Recovery: Re-emergence of a conditioned response after extinction.

    • Stimulus Discrimination: Responding differently to diverse stimuli.

    • Stimulus Generalization: Applying learned responses to similar stimuli.

    • Counter-Conditioning: Replacing an undesirable behavior with a preferred one.

    • Higher-Order Conditioning: Using a CS as a US to condition a new NS.

Biological Preparedness

  • Definition: Innate predisposition to respond negatively to potential threats.

    • Taste Aversion: Avoidance of certain tastes due to association with harm.

    • One-Trial Learning: Strong associations formed from a single exposure.

    • Habituation: Reduced response to a stimulus after repeated exposure.