Which learning process involves forming an association between a neutral stimulus and a meaningful stimulus, causing a conditioned response (for example, salivation to a bell)?

Which learning process involves forming an association between a neutral stimulus and a meaningful stimulus, causing a conditioned response (for example, salivation to a bell)?

• A. Latent learning
• B. Observational learning
• C. Operant conditioning
• D. Classical conditioning

Answer: (D)

Classical conditioning is learning by forming an association between a neutral stimulus and a meaningful stimulus, so a conditioned response appears. In the example, the bell starts as a neutral cue, but after being paired with food (an unconditioned stimulus that naturally causes salivation), the bell alone begins to elicit salivation. That learned response to the bell is the conditioned response. This is different from operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by consequences; from observational learning, which involves learning by watching others; and from latent learning, which is knowledge that isn’t immediately expressed.

Classical conditioning is learning by forming an association between a neutral stimulus and a meaningful stimulus, so a conditioned response appears. In the example, the bell starts as a neutral cue, but after being paired with food (an unconditioned stimulus that naturally causes salivation), the bell alone begins to elicit salivation. That learned response to the bell is the conditioned response. This is different from operant conditioning, where behavior is shaped by consequences; from observational learning, which involves learning by watching others; and from latent learning, which is knowledge that isn’t immediately expressed.