Chapter 8: Learning

Question 0

Define classical conditioning and behaviorism, and describe its basic components.

Answer 0

classical conditioning = associating stimuli
behaviorism = psychology should be objective, ignoring mental processes.
US, NS, UR, CS, CR

Question 1

Define learning, and identify two forms of learning.

Answer 1

learning = relatively permanent change in behavior due to experience.
associative learning = linking two events close together (classical conditioning)
observational learning = learning from others’ experiences (operant conditioning)

Question 2

What are the timing requirements for acquirement of a stimulus-response relationship?

Answer 2

Classical conditioning is best taught immediately; CS should be presented right before US.

Question 3

What is the process of extinction, spontaneous recovery, generalization, and discrimination?

Answer 3

extinction = when CS no longer produces CR
spontaneous recovery = reappearance of formerly extinct response
generalization = responding to stimuli similar to CS
discrimination = ability to distinguish between CS and other stimuli

Question 4

What is the survival value of generalization and discrimination?

Answer 4

Generalization allows us to apply a learned response to a wider category (e.g. dangerous animals). Discrimination allows us to limit our response to only appropriate stimuli.

Question 5

How important are cognitive processes in classical conditioning?

Answer 5

Organisms learn to expect stimuli.