Question

when a previously learned behavior disappears because the conditioned stimulus is no longer paired with the unconditioned stimulus, we call it ______.

generalization
classical conditioning
spontaneous recovery
extinction

Explanation:

Analyze the definition of the target psychological process

The question describes a scenario where a previously learned behavior disappears because the conditioned stimulus (CS) is repeatedly presented without the unconditioned stimulus (UCS).

Evaluate the given multiple-choice options

• generalization: The tendency to respond to stimuli similar to the conditioned stimulus.
• classical conditioning: The overall learning process of associating stimuli.
• spontaneous recovery: The sudden reappearance of an extinguished conditioned response after a rest period.
• extinction: The gradual weakening and disappearance of a conditioned response when the conditioned stimulus is repeatedly presented without the unconditioned stimulus.

Match the definition to the correct term

The description perfectly matches the definition of extinction.

Answer:

• generalization
• classical conditioning
• spontaneous recovery
• extinction (Correct answer)