MCAT psych/soc foundational concepts: learning theory, memory, sensation and perception, motivation.
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- What is classical conditioning?
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A learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus, eventually triggering a conditioned response.- Define an unconditioned stimulus (UCS).
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A stimulus that naturally triggers an unconditioned response without any prior learning.- What is a conditioned response (CR)?
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A learned response triggered by a previously neutral stimulus after it has been paired with an unconditioned stimulus.- What is extinction in classical conditioning?
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The gradual weakening and disappearance of a conditioned response when the conditioned stimulus is presented without the unconditioned stimulus.- Define spontaneous recovery.
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The reappearance of a conditioned response after extinction, following a time delay without stimulus exposure.- What is stimulus generalization?
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The tendency to respond to stimuli similar to the original conditioned stimulus, even without explicit pairing.- What is stimulus discrimination in classical conditioning?
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The ability to differentiate between the conditioned stimulus and similar stimuli, responding only to the original paired stimulus.- Define operant conditioning.
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A learning process in which behavior is modified by its consequences through reinforcement or punishment.- What is positive reinforcement?
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The addition of a desirable consequence after a behavior, increasing the likelihood the behavior will be repeated.- What is negative reinforcement?
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The removal of an aversive stimulus after a behavior, increasing the likelihood the behavior will be repeated.- What is positive punishment?
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The addition of an aversive consequence after a behavior, decreasing the likelihood the behavior will be repeated.- What is negative punishment?
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The removal of a desirable consequence after a behavior, decreasing the likelihood the behavior will be repeated.- What is a variable ratio schedule of reinforcement?
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Reinforcement occurs after an unpredictable number of correct responses, producing high and steady rates of behavior.- What is a variable interval schedule of reinforcement?
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Reinforcement occurs at unpredictable time intervals, producing moderate and steady rates of behavior.- What is a fixed ratio schedule of reinforcement?
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Reinforcement occurs after a set number of correct responses, producing high rates of behavior with brief pauses after reinforcement.
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