Classical Conditioning Paper
Jennifer Barzona
PSY/390
April 23, 2012
Ricky Fenwick

Classical Conditioning Paper When a response is formulated from one stimulus to another unlearned stimulus this process of learning is known as classical conditioning. The most noted theorist of classical condition is Ivan Pavlov for his work with dogs. By using classical conditioning an animal such a puppy can be taught to not chew on the couch when sprayed in the face with a water bottle.
Classical Conditioning Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist who discovered this type of learning while researching digestion, accidentally discovered classical conditioning. In classical conditioning learning is accomplished through experience by using a traditionally neutral stimulus to create a physical response. (Olson & Hergenhahn, 2009) While researching dogs Pavlov observed when food was present the dogs salivate in response. During his research Pavlov introduced a bell when food was presented and finally removed the food when the bell rang. Pavlov noted the dogs salivated when food was not present and the bell rang. Pavlov stated classical conditioning has four components: conditioned stimulus, unconditioned stimulus, conditioned reflex, and unconditioned reflex. A conditioned stimulus is learned through prior conditioning. An unconditioned stimulus is any stimulus causing a reaction without prior conditioning or learning. An unconditional response is an unlearned response occurring to naturally unconditioned stimulus. The conditional response is a learned response to a stimulus previously neutral. (Olson & Hergenhahn, 2009) Classical conditioning is helpful to decrease a behavior as well as increasing desired behaviors.
Classical Conditioning Scenario A new puppy like a child must learn then acceptable social and behavioral skills for survival.