Which of the following statements applies to instrumental learning?a)I...
As we have seen, classical conditioning allows an animal to learn about the relationship between events in the environment and so anticipate what will happen next on the basis of stimuli currently present. If there are grey clouds in the sky, then it will probably rain; if the light is presented, then food may well follow. Instrumental learning is the process by which an animal learns about the relationship between its behaviour and the consequences of that behaviour.
And it serves a complementary but equally important function in allowing the animal to control (at least partially) the occurrence of environmental events – in other words, to bring about a desired event or to avoid an aversive event by responding in a particular way. Instrumentally trained responses are not entirely elicited by identifiable stimuli. Instead, they are controlled by their consequences, becoming more likely when they produce a positive result and less likely when they lead to an aversive outcome.
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Which of the following statements applies to instrumental learning?a)I...
Understanding Instrumental Learning
Instrumental learning, also known as operant conditioning, is a fundamental concept in behavioral psychology. It highlights how behaviors are influenced by their consequences, making it a crucial aspect of learning in both animals and humans.
Key Points of Instrumental Learning
- Behavior-Consequences Relationship:
Instrumental learning is primarily about understanding the relationship between an organism's behavior and the consequences that follow. When a behavior leads to a positive outcome, the likelihood of that behavior being repeated increases.
- Responses Not Elicited by Identifiable Stimuli:
Unlike classical conditioning, where responses are triggered by specific stimuli, instrumental learning involves voluntary actions. The responses are not merely reactions to stimuli but are instead motivated by the anticipated consequences.
- Control Over Environmental Events:
One of the key aspects of instrumental learning is that it empowers the organism to exert control over its environment. By learning which behaviors lead to desirable outcomes (like food or shelter), the organism can influence its own circumstances.
Conclusion
Considering these points, all statements accurately reflect the nature of instrumental learning. It encompasses the understanding of behavior-consequence relationships, the voluntary nature of responses, and the control animals can exert over their environments. Thus, the correct answer is indeed option 'D', as it encapsulates the comprehensive nature of instrumental learning.
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