Classical conditioning

CONTIGUITY: Classical conditioning is most effective when the conditioned stimulus is is presented half a second before the unconditioned stimulus

Learning by association

Key terms:

Neutral stimulus (NS)

Conditioned stimulus (CS)

Unconditioned response (UCR)

Conditioned response (CR)

Unconditioned stimulus (UCS)

A signal (stimulus) that draws an unconditioned response without previous conditioning

The unlearned reaction to an unconditioned stimulus that occurs without previous conditioning. The normal response to the UCS.

A neutral stimulus that does not elicit any response.

The unconditioned stimulus is repeatedly paired with the neutral stimulus. The neutral stimulus then becomes the conditioned response.

A previously neutral stimulus that now causes a conditioned response.

Learned reaction to a conditioned stimulus. The UCR and CR are the same

Learning occurs between two stimuli- when they are repeatedly paired

As a result the neutral stimulus from the environment elicits a response

CONTINGENCY: Classical conditioning is most effective when the unconditioned stimulus and the conditioned stimulus happen after each other

Process

  1. Acquisition: the initial stage of learning something
  1. Pairing: the stimulus must be repeatedly paired
  1. Timing: the neutral stimulus must be presented at the right time