Behavioural Learning

Behavioural learning consists of classical and operant conditioning.

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Classical conditioning is a form of associative learning by which a neutral stimulus, paired with an unconditioned stimulus can create an association such that the previously neutral stimulus will elicit a conditioned response.

In psychology, the general format for this looks something like:

Neutral Stimulus = No response

Unconditioned Stimulus  = Unconditioned Response

Neutral Stimulus + Unconditioned Stimulus = Unconditioned Response

Conditioned Stimulus (previously neutral stimulus) = Conditioned Response

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Operant Conditioning is a form of associative learning in which behaviour is either strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow them. There are four different forms of operant conditioning.

Positive Reinforcement: the addition of an appetitive stimulus (e.g. giving your child a cookie when they do something good)

Negative Reinforcement: the removal of an aversive stimulus (e.g. when the baby cries you take them out of their play pen)

Positive Punishment: the addition of an aversive stimulus (e.g. spanking your child when they do something bad)

Negative Punishment: the removal of an appetitive stimulus (e.g. taking away toys or video games when a child does something bad)

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The difference between classical and operant conditioning can be hard to wrap your head around. However, a good way to remember it is that classical conditioning has to do with associations from unconditioned responses. Whereas operant conditioning is goal oriented and involves the likelihood of repeating a behaviour based on its consequences.

Powell, R.A., Symbaluk, D.G., & Honey, P.L. (2017). Introduction to learning and behavior (5th edition). Toronto, ON: Thomson/Wadsworth.

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