Question

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

Short answer

The answer is Latent Learning.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the concept

In psychology, several learning theories exist but only some involve the concept of reinforcement. Reinforcement is a means to increase the likelihood of behavior repeating. In this case, the behavior is learned but isn't demonstrated right away. Instead, it waits for appropriate reinforcement. This is linked to the concept of latent learning.

Link to the correct term

Latent learning is a form of learning that is not immediately expressed in an overt response. It occurs without any obvious reinforcement of the behavior or associations that are learned. So, in this exercise, the type of learning that fits the description is latent learning.

Key concepts

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is a powerful tool used in various learning theories, especially in the field of behavioral psychology. It involves using rewards or consequences to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Reinforcement can be either positive or negative:

• Positive Reinforcement: This involves giving a reward or incentive after a desired behavior, encouraging it to happen again.
• Negative Reinforcement: This involves removing an unpleasant stimulus once the desired behavior occurs, also boosting the chances of its recurrence.

Latent learning often stays hidden in the absence of reinforcement, only becoming apparent when the right incentive or situation arises. For example, a child may not show their ability to solve a puzzle until a reward like praise or a treat is offered. This illustrates how reinforcement can be crucial in revealing latent learning.

Learning Theories

Learning theories are frameworks that explain how individuals acquire, process, and retain knowledge. They help us understand the processes that underlie learning and the role of reinforcement in making learning effective. Some prominent learning theories include:

• Behaviorism: Focuses on observable behaviors and considers learning as a result of conditioning through reinforcement.
• Cognitivism: Emphasizes the role of mental processes and considers learning as a change in cognitive structures.
• Constructivism: Views learning as a personal construction of knowledge through experiences.

Latent learning, associated primarily with the cognitivist perspective, suggests that people can learn behavior or information without reinforcement. It indicates that learning can occur internally and become evident later when the conditions are favorable, such as the presence of reinforcement.

Behavioral Psychology

Behavioral psychology, also known as behaviorism, is a theory that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning. Conditioning occurs through interaction with the environment, where reinforcement plays a critical role in shaping and modifying behavior.
There are two main types of conditioning in behavioral psychology:

• Classical Conditioning: Learning occurs through associations between stimuli and responses.
• Operant Conditioning: Behavior is strengthened or weakened based on reinforcement or punishment.

The concept of latent learning challenges some aspects of strict behavioral psychology because it suggests learning can occur without the immediate reinforcement that behaviorism mandates. This indicates that human learning may be more complex and integrated, involving not just external stimuli but also internal understanding and cognition.