Classical Conditioning

 Classical conditioning is a type of learning that occurs when a neutral stimulus elicits the same response after it is paired with an unconditioned stimulus that naturally produces a response. After frequent pairings of the neutral stimulus with the unconditioned stimulus, the neutral stimulus produces the same response and is therefore referred to as a conditioned stimulus.

The discovery is attributed to the work of Russian physiologist, Ivan Pavlov in the 1800s. In psychology texts, Pavlov conditions a dog to salivate to the sound of a bell without food after the bell had been paired with the presentation of food. The salivation was a natural response to food but after the bell was paired with the presentation of food, salivation became a conditioned response.

Classical conditioning has been applied to psychotherapy.

Some phobias can be reduced or eliminated when the eliciting (trigger) stimulus is successfully paired with a stimulus that produces a calm and relaxed emotional state.

Other interventions based on a classical conditioning model include:

Aversive conditioning

Systematic Desensitization

Exposure Therapy

Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website is  www.suttong.com

 

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Dr. Sutton’s posts are for educational purposes only. See a licensed mental health provider for diagnoses, treatment, and consultation.