Sidman avoidance
A) presents a challenge to two-factor theory, but only when time cues are not considered.
B) is strong evidence for two-factor theory regardless of whether or not time cues are considered.
C) can be expected to work only when time cues are considered.
D) only works when the avoidance response starts as an escape response, but is nevertheless consistent with two-factor theory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sidman avoidance, which involves a type of avoidance conditioning where the avoidance response is learned without being preceded by a warning signal, presents a challenge to two-factor theory, especially when time cues are not considered. Two-factor theory suggests that avoidance learning involves both classical (factor one) and operant (factor two) conditioning, typically relying on a warning signal to initiate the fear response (classical conditioning) that the avoidance behavior (operant conditioning) then alleviates. Sidman avoidance suggests that avoidance behavior can be learned without an explicit warning signal, challenging the necessity of the classical conditioning component when time cues are not a factor.

Sidman Avoidance