Classical Conditioning: How We Learn to Associate Stimuli

In classical conditioning, extinction occurs when the _______ stimulus is no longer paired with the unconditioned stimulus.

• conditioned

• unconditioned

• neutral

• reinforced

Answer explanation

In classical conditioning, extinction happens when the conditioned stimulus is no longer paired with the unconditioned stimulus, leading to a decrease in the conditioned response.

Match the following terms with their definitions related to classical conditioning.

• When a response is elicited by stimuli that are contrary to the conditioned stimulus.

• similar

• When a response is elicited by stimuli that are not like the conditioned stimulus.

• identical

• When a response is elicited by stimuli that resemble the conditioned stimulus.

• different

• When a response is elicited by stimuli that are exactly the same as the conditioned stimulus.

• opposite

Answer explanation

In classical conditioning, generalization occurs when a response is elicited by stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus, not identical, different, or opposite. This allows the learned response to apply to a broader range of stimuli.

Which term describes the process of learning to respond only to the original stimulus and not to other similar stimuli?

• Generalization

• Discrimination

• Extinction

• Spontaneous recovery

Answer explanation

The term 'Discrimination' refers to the ability to distinguish between the original stimulus and similar stimuli, responding only to the original. This is opposed to 'Generalization', where responses are made to similar stimuli.

What is classical conditioning?

• A process of learning to associate stimuli

• A method of physical training

• A type of dog training

• A form of meditation

Answer explanation

Classical conditioning is a learning process where an individual learns to associate a neutral stimulus with a significant stimulus, leading to a conditioned response. Thus, the correct choice is 'A process of learning to associate stimuli'.

Match the following physiological responses with what Pavlov was studying in dogs.

• Motor response

• Saliva production

• Digestion process

• Muscle movement

• Cardiovascular response

• Brain activity

• Neural response

• Heart rate

Answer explanation

Pavlov was studying digestion in dogs and observed that they began to salivate in response to stimuli associated with food. This led to his research on saliva production, which became foundational in behavioral psychology.

What device was used to count drops of saliva in Pavlov's experiment?

• Observation screen

• Tube for collection of saliva

• Device to count drops of saliva

• Revolving drum for recording responses.

Answer explanation

In Pavlov's experiment, the 'Device to count drops of saliva' was specifically designed to measure the saliva produced by dogs, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

In Pavlov's experiment, what was used as a stimulus to trigger saliva production?

• Light

• Sound

• Meat powder

• Water

Answer explanation

In Pavlov's experiment, meat powder was used as the unconditioned stimulus to trigger saliva production in dogs, demonstrating classical conditioning when paired with a neutral stimulus like a bell.

Fill in the blank: A Neutral Stimulus (NS) is one that ______.

• Naturally triggers a response

• Does not naturally cause a response

• Learned trigger for a response

• Learned reaction to CS

Answer explanation

A Neutral Stimulus (NS) is defined as a stimulus that does not naturally cause a response. This distinguishes it from other stimuli that may trigger responses without prior conditioning.

Match the following terms with their definitions:

• Neutral Stimulus (NS)

• Naturally triggers a response

• Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS)

• Learned trigger for a response.

• Conditioned Stimulus (CS)

• Natural reaction to UCS

• Unconditioned Response (UCR)

• Does not naturally cause a response

Answer explanation

A Conditioned Stimulus (CS) is a learned trigger for a response, as it acquires the ability to elicit a response through association with an Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS). This distinguishes it from natural stimuli.

After conditioning, the NS becomes CS and triggers (a)   .

• A) UCR
• B) CR
• C) UCS
• D) NS

Answer explanation

After conditioning, the neutral stimulus (NS) becomes a conditioned stimulus (CS) and triggers a conditioned response (CR). Therefore, the correct answer is B) CR.