Question

In _______ learning, a new behavior is learned but is not shown until appropriate reinforcement is presented.

Short answer

The type of learning described in the exercise is 'Latent Learning'

Step-by-step solution

Identification of the Learning Theory

From the various learning theories in Psychology, the one that fits the description given in the exercise is called 'Latent Learning'. In this type of learning, the behavior is learned but not expressed until it is reinforced or a specific incentive is given.

Key concepts

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is a key concept in behavioral psychology that helps us understand how behaviors can be increased or strengthened. At its core, reinforcement involves presenting a stimulus after a behavior to encourage the occurrence of that behavior in the future.

There are two main types of reinforcement:

• **Positive Reinforcement**: This involves adding a pleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior. For example, giving a child candy for doing homework is positive reinforcement.
• **Negative Reinforcement**: It involves removing an unpleasant stimulus to strengthen behavior. An example might be turning off a loud alarm once a certain task is completed, like getting out of bed.

In the context of latent learning, reinforcement plays a role in expressing the behavior that had been learned but not previously exhibited. Until an appropriate reinforcement is introduced, the learned behavior may remain hidden.

Behavioral Psychology

Behavioral psychology, often referred to as behaviorism, is a branch of psychology focused on studying observable behaviors, rather than internal mental states. This traditional approach emphasizes that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning.

Key components include:

• **Classical Conditioning**: Learning through association, famously demonstrated by Pavlov's dogs who learned to associate a bell with food.
• **Operant Conditioning**: Learning based on the consequences of behavior, central to the work of B.F. Skinner, which includes reinforcement and punishment.

Latent learning challenges the empiricist perspective of behavioral psychology by demonstrating that learning can occur without immediate reinforcement. It suggests that cognitive processes play a role, as individuals can acquire knowledge without displaying it until circumstances make it relevant.

Learning Theories

Learning theories provide a framework for understanding how information is absorbed, processed, and retained. These theories not only describe how we learn but also delve into the psychological aspects influencing learning.

Prominent learning theories include:

• **Behaviorism**: Focuses on observable behavior. Learns through conditioning (observable input and output).
• **Cognitivism**: Focuses on the inner mental activities. Emphasizes the understanding of human thought processes.
  
• **Constructivism**: Suggests learners build (or "construct") their own understanding and knowledge through experiences.

Latent learning is a hidden or subconscious form of learning often associated with cognitivism. It occurs without any clear reinforcement or behavior change, becoming apparent only when a reason to use said learning appears. This type of learning showcases the complex interplay between cognitive processes and observable behavior.