Subjects jump when they see a flashing blue light because it has been paired with a mild electric shock.Which of the following would be a test of stimulus generalization?
A) Present the flashing blue light without the shock.
B) Present a flashing green light.
C) Present the shock without the blue light.
D) Extinguish the response and then present the blue light.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A test of stimulus generalization involves presenting a new stimulus similar to the original conditioned stimulus (the blue light) to see if the same response (jumping) occurs. Option A involves presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus (shock), which is a test of extinction. Option C involves presenting the unconditioned stimulus without the conditioned stimulus, which is a test of spontaneous recovery. Option D involves repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus until the response is extinguished, which is a test of extinction. Option B involves presenting a new stimulus (flashing green light) that is similar but not identical to the conditioned stimulus, which is a test of stimulus generalization.

Subjects Jump When They See a Flashing Blue Light Because