Chapter 12: The Limits of Learning

Question 1

Autoshaping

Answer 1

A procedure in which a stimulus is followed by a reinforcer regardless of what the organism does. The procedure often results in the shaping of behavior without reinforcement. Also called sign tracking.

Question 2

Continuum of preparedness

Answer 2

The idea that organisms are genetically disposed to learn some things and not others. Preparedness.

Question 3

Critical period

Answer 3

A period in the development of an organism during which it is especially likely to learn a particular kind of behavior.

Question 4

Imprinting

Answer 4

The tendency of some animals, particularly birds, to follow the first moving object they see after birth, usually (but not necessarily) their mother.

Question 5

Instinctive drift

Answer 5

The tendency for behavior to drift toward a fixed action pattern.