Question

question 14
the ______ theory explains that the immediate associations involved in a conditioned taste aversion are a result of adaptation that helps us learn to avoid foods that are potentially harmful.
a social learning
b evolution by natural selection
c behavioral
d cognitive

Explanation:

• Social learning theory focuses on learning through observation of others, not on biological adaptations for avoiding harmful foods.
• Evolution by natural selection explains how traits (like the ability to form taste - aversions quickly to avoid harmful substances) that enhance survival and reproduction are passed on. A quick association in taste - aversion (a form of learning) that helps avoid harmful foods is an adaptation that would be favored by natural selection.
• Behavioral theory generally focuses on stimulus - response relationships (like classical and operant conditioning) but does not specifically address the evolutionary basis of why some associations (like taste - aversion) are more easily learned.
• Cognitive theory emphasizes mental processes like thinking, memory, and perception. While cognition is involved in learning, it does not explain the evolutionary advantage of quick taste - aversion learning.

Answer:

B. evolution by natural selection