Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How does operant conditioning differ from classical conditioning?

1. Operant conditioning involves punishing a behavior, while classical conditioning is the process of learning through association

2. Operant conditioning is the process of learning through association, while classical conditioning involves rewarding a behavior

3. Operant conditioning is an unconscious process, while classical conditioning is a conscious process

4. Operant conditioning is used to shape behaviors, while classical conditioning is used to extinguish behaviors

The correct answer is: Operant conditioning is the process of learning through association, while classical conditioning involves rewarding a behavior

Operant conditioning involves reinforcing or punishing behaviors in order to increase or decrease their frequency, respectively. In contrast, classical conditioning is based on the association between a neutral stimulus and an unconditioned stimulus, resulting in a response to the previously neutral stimulus. Option A is incorrect because both operant and classical conditioning involve learning through association, but operant conditioning focuses on reinforcing or punishing specific behaviors rather than association between stimuli. Option C is incorrect because both types of conditioning can involve conscious or unconscious processes. Option D is incorrect because both operant and classical conditioning can be used to shape behaviors or to extinguish them.