AP Psychology Practice Test

What term did Skinner use to describe behavior learned through classical conditioning?

1. Operant behavior

2. Respondent behavior

3. Spontaneous recovery

4. Law of effect

The correct answer is: Respondent behavior

The term used by Skinner to describe behavior that is learned through classical conditioning is indeed "respondent behavior." This concept is grounded in the idea that certain stimuli can elicit responses automatically, without the need for active reinforcement or punishment, which is a hallmark of classical conditioning. In classical conditioning, an unconditioned stimulus naturally triggers an unconditioned response. When a neutral stimulus is paired repeatedly with the unconditioned stimulus, it can become a conditioned stimulus that then elicits a conditioned response. Respondent behavior is characterized by involuntary actions that occur in response to stimuli, as opposed to operant behavior, which is influenced by reinforcement or punishment and involves voluntary actions. This distinction is crucial because it highlights the difference between the two types of learning: classical conditioning involves automatic responses to stimuli, while operant conditioning, which Skinner emphasized, involves learned behaviors shaped by their consequences.