which one of the following statements describes classical conditioning:
A. it generally involves more than one independant variable
B. it involves the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus
C. it depends on a close relationship between responses and consequences.
D. it concerns the modification of responses by conseguences
B. It involves the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus.
The answer to the question is B. Classical conditioning involves the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus.
To arrive at this answer, we can break down the statements and apply some knowledge about classical conditioning:
A. Classical conditioning generally involves more than one independent variable.
This statement is not accurate because classical conditioning typically involves only one independent variable, which is the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus. So, A is incorrect.
B. Classical conditioning involves the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus.
This statement accurately describes classical conditioning. Classical conditioning occurs when a neutral stimulus (conditioned stimulus) becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus, resulting in a learned response. So, B is correct.
C. Classical conditioning depends on a close relationship between responses and consequences.
This statement refers to operant conditioning, not classical conditioning. In operant conditioning, behavior is modified by the consequences that follow it. So, C is incorrect.
D. Classical conditioning concerns the modification of responses by consequences.
Similar to statement C, this statement describes operant conditioning, not classical conditioning. So, D is incorrect.
Therefore, the correct answer is B. It involves the pairing of a conditioned stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus.