In Pavlov’s theory of classical conditioning, he mentioned several phenomena that affect the learning process. In your written assignment, please be sure to demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of 1) acquisition,

2) extinction and recovery,

3) generalization and discrimination, and

4) Higher-order conditioning by using a real-life example (different than what was used in your discussion boards or in your text).
• Each written assignment will consist of a paper that is at least 3 full pages. Each paper must be double-spaced with size 12
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Classical Conditioning Concepts in a Dental Visit Example

1. Acquisition
Acquisition occurs when a neutral stimulus (NS) is paired with an unconditioned stimulus (US), leading to a conditioned response (CR).

Example: A child initially feels no fear when entering the dentist’s office (NS). During their first filling, they experience pain (US), which naturally causes fear (unconditioned response, UR). After repeated visits where the dentist’s office is paired with pain, the child begins to feel anxious (CR) merely upon entering the office (now a conditioned stimulus, CS).

2. Extinction and Recovery

• Extinction: The CR diminishes when the CS is repeatedly presented without the US.

• Spontaneous Recovery: The sudden return of the CR after a rest period when the CS is reintroduced.

Example: If the child visits the dentist multiple times for non-painful check-ups (CS without US), their anxiety (CR) gradually fades (extinction). However, if they return after a long break and experience pain again, the fear might resurface during a subsequent visit (spontaneous recovery).

3. Generalization and Discrimination

• Generalization: Responding to stimuli similar to the CS.

• Discrimination: Learning to distinguish between the CS and similar stimuli.

Example: The child initially feels anxious at any dental clinic (generalization) due to similarities in smells or equipment. Over time, they learn that only their specific dentist’s office (e.g., with a distinct logo or chair color) predicts pain, while other clinics are safe (discrimination).

4. Higher-Order Conditioning
A new NS is paired with an existing CS to create a conditioned response.

Example: The parent always says, “Time for your appointment,” (new NS) before taking the child to the dentist’s office (existing CS). After repeated pairings, the phrase itself triggers anxiety (CR), even in non-dental contexts (e.g., at home). Here, the parent’s statement becomes a second-order conditioned stimulus through association with the original CS (dentist’s office).

This example illustrates how classical conditioning mechanisms shape emotional responses in everyday life, extending beyond the original learning context.