Unit 4 - Learning & Behaviorism

What is the main focus of behaviorism in psychology?

• Studying mental processes

• Analyzing dreams and unconscious thoughts

• Examining observable behavior

• Investigating genetic influences on personality

Answer explanation

The main focus of behaviorism in psychology is on examining observable behavior, rather than internal mental processes, dreams, or genetic influences. This approach emphasizes measurable actions as the basis for understanding behavior.

How long does it typically take to form a habit?

• 21 days

• 45 days

• 66 days

• 90 days

Answer explanation

Research indicates that it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit. While the popular notion of 21 days is common, studies show that the actual time can vary, with 66 days being a more accurate estimate.

Which type of learning involves anticipating events based on associated stimuli?

• Operant conditioning

• Observational learning

• Classical conditioning

• Cognitive learning

Answer explanation

Classical conditioning involves learning to anticipate events by associating a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus, leading to a conditioned response. This is distinct from the other types of learning listed.

Who is credited with pioneering classical conditioning?

• B.F. Skinner

• John B. Watson

• Albert Bandura

• Ivan Pavlov

Answer explanation

Ivan Pavlov is credited with pioneering classical conditioning through his experiments with dogs, demonstrating how a neutral stimulus can elicit a conditioned response when paired with an unconditioned stimulus.

In Pavlov's experiment, what was the unconditioned stimulus?

• The bell

• The dog's salivation

• The food

• The laboratory environment

Answer explanation

In Pavlov's experiment, the unconditioned stimulus is the food, as it naturally triggers a response (salivation) without prior conditioning. The bell is a conditioned stimulus, while the dog's salivation is the conditioned response.

What is the term for a stimulus that elicits no response before conditioning?

• Unconditioned stimulus

• Conditioned stimulus

• Neutral stimulus

• Conditioned response

Answer explanation

The term 'neutral stimulus' refers to a stimulus that does not elicit any response before conditioning occurs. It becomes significant only after being paired with an unconditioned stimulus.

Who conducted the 'Baby Albert' experiments?

• Ivan Pavlov

• John B. Watson

• B.F. Skinner

• Albert Bandura

Answer explanation

The 'Baby Albert' experiments were conducted by John B. Watson, who, along with his assistant Rosalie Rayner, demonstrated classical conditioning by conditioning a child to fear a white rat.

What is the process of learning by watching others called?

• Vicarious learning

• Observational learning

• Modeling

• Social cognition

Answer explanation

The process of learning by watching others is called observational learning. It involves acquiring new behaviors or information by observing the actions of others, making it distinct from vicarious learning and modeling.

Which psychologist is considered a transitional figure from behaviorism to cognitive psychology?

• John B. Watson

• B.F. Skinner

• Ivan Pavlov

• Albert Bandura

Answer explanation

Albert Bandura is considered a transitional figure from behaviorism to cognitive psychology due to his emphasis on observational learning and the role of cognitive processes in behavior, bridging the two fields.

What is the term for an event that strengthens a behavior?

• Punishment

• Reinforcement

• Shaping

• Conditioning

Answer explanation

Reinforcement is the term for an event that strengthens a behavior, making it more likely to occur in the future. Unlike punishment, which decreases behavior, reinforcement increases it.