In classical conditioning, when the conditioned response is extinguished, but reappears later, the reappearance of the response is called:
A) higher-order conditioning.
B) instinctive drift.
C) spontaneous recovery.
D) stimulus generalization.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Spontaneous recovery is the reappearance of the conditioned response after a period of extinction. It is called spontaneous recovery because the response returns without any additional conditioning trials. Choice A and D are incorrect because they describe different concepts in classical conditioning. Higher-order conditioning occurs when a new neutral stimulus is paired with a conditioned stimulus to create a new conditioned stimulus, while stimulus generalization occurs when stimuli similar to the conditioned stimulus also elicit the conditioned response. Choice B is incorrect because it refers to a phenomenon observed in operant conditioning where an animal's genetically programmed behaviors (instincts) interfere with learned behaviors.

In Classical Conditioning, When the Conditioned Response Is Extinguished, but Reappears