Acquisition

Definition

Acquisition refers to the initial learning or development of a new behavior or response through a conditioning process. It is the stage in which an individual first learns to associate a stimulus with a particular response, leading to the establishment of a conditioned response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acquisition is the initial stage of classical conditioning, where the individual learns to associate a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus.
2. The speed and strength of acquisition depend on factors such as the intensity and timing of the unconditioned stimulus, the number of pairings, and the individual's characteristics.
3. Acquisition is marked by the gradual strengthening of the conditioned response, as the individual learns to anticipate the unconditioned stimulus.
4. The acquisition process is influenced by the principle of contiguity, which states that the closer in time the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus are paired, the stronger the association will be.
5. Acquisition can be enhanced through the use of reinforcement, where the conditioned response is rewarded, further strengthening the learned association.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of acquisition in the classical conditioning process.
  • Acquisition is the initial stage of classical conditioning, where an individual learns to associate a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus. During this stage, the individual gradually develops a conditioned response, as the neutral stimulus becomes paired with the unconditioned stimulus. The speed and strength of acquisition depend on factors such as the intensity and timing of the unconditioned stimulus, the number of pairings, and the individual's characteristics. Acquisition is marked by the gradual strengthening of the conditioned response, as the individual learns to anticipate the unconditioned stimulus.
• Describe how the principle of contiguity influences the acquisition process in classical conditioning.
  • The principle of contiguity states that the closer in time the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus are paired, the stronger the association will be. This principle plays a crucial role in the acquisition stage of classical conditioning. When the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus are presented in close temporal proximity, the individual is more likely to form a strong association between the two, leading to a more rapid and robust acquisition of the conditioned response. The timing of the stimulus presentations is a key factor in determining the success and speed of the acquisition process.
• Analyze how reinforcement can enhance the acquisition of a conditioned response in classical conditioning.
  • Reinforcement can significantly enhance the acquisition of a conditioned response in classical conditioning. During the acquisition stage, if the conditioned response is rewarded or reinforced, the individual's motivation to perform the response is increased, and the association between the conditioned stimulus and the unconditioned stimulus is further strengthened. This reinforcement can take the form of a positive outcome, such as a reward or a pleasurable experience, or the avoidance of a negative outcome. By providing reinforcement, the acquisition process is accelerated, and the conditioned response becomes more firmly established in the individual's behavioral repertoire.

Related terms

Classical Conditioning: A type of learning in which a neutral stimulus is repeatedly paired with an unconditioned stimulus, eventually leading the neutral stimulus to elicit a conditioned response.

Unconditioned Response: The automatic, natural response that occurs in the presence of an unconditioned stimulus, before any learning takes place.

Conditioned Response: The learned response that occurs in the presence of a conditioned stimulus, as a result of the conditioning process.