Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the key difference between classical and operant conditioning?

1. Classical conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through repeated association while operant conditioning is the reaction to environment’s cues

2. Classical conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through reinforcement while operant conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through repeated association

3. Classical conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through punishment while operant conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through reinforcement

4. Classical conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through repetition while operant conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through punishment

The correct answer is: Classical conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through punishment while operant conditioning is a form of behaviours learnt through reinforcement

The key difference between classical and operant conditioning is that classical conditioning involves the learning of involuntary, reflexive behaviors through the repeated pairing of a neutral stimulus with an unconditioned stimulus, while operant conditioning involves the learning of voluntary behaviors through reinforcement and/or punishment. Option A is incorrect because it incorrectly states that operant conditioning is a reaction to environment's cues rather than reinforcement. Option B is incorrect because it incorrectly states that classical conditioning is based on reinforcement, when in fact it involves an association between two stimuli. Option D is incorrect because it incorrectly states that classical conditioning involves behaviors learned through repetition, when in fact it involves an association between two stimuli. Therefore, option C is the best answer.