Classical conditioning is a type of learning that involves pairing a neutral stimulus with a stimulus that already produces a response:
Neutral stimulus (CS): A stimulus that doesn't automatically produce a response
Unconditioned stimulus (US): A stimulus that naturally produces a response
Conditioned response (CR): A response that's acquired after the CS and US are paired
Unconditioned response (UR): A response that's naturally produced by the US
Classical conditioning is also known as Pavlovian or respondent conditioning. It's a form of associative learning that can be used in therapy, the classroom, and wildlife conservation.
Here are some examples of classical conditioning:
Pavlov's dogs
Pavlov noticed that dogs would salivate before food arrived, even though they initially only salivated when food was placed in front of them.
Wildlife conservation
Lions were conditioned to dislike the taste of beef so they wouldn't prey on cattle.
Therapy
A therapist might pair relaxation techniques with images of spiders to help a patient overcome a fear of spiders.
Classroom
A teacher might pair a subject that makes students nervous with a positive environment to help students feel more positive about the subject.
Classical conditioning can also be used to create positive associations with healthy choices, like exercise or healthy foods. However, it can also be used in unethical ways, like associating addictive substances with fun times.
